SSPDF cautions officers over involvement in politics

November 28, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has warned military officers from the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) to desist from engaging in politics.

Addressing reporters in the capital, Juba on Thursday, the army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said the army got information that SSOA officers were participating in political activities.

“In recent days, Lieutenant General Garang Akol Ayii, Director General for Procurement and co-chair of the Joint Defense Board, raised serious concerns about SSOA officers involving themselves in political matters while awaiting the unification of the second echelon of the command,” he stated.

Koang said SSOA, which is part of the unity government, has been experiencing internal divisions among its top leaders. He cited tension between and the Federal Democratic Party (FDP) headed by Gabriel Changson Chang and the Costello Gerang’s South Sudan Patriotic Movement (SSPM).

He warned these officers to desist harmful propaganda especially on social media platforms.

“Following consultations with the Chief of Defense Forces, who also serves as co-chair of the Joint Defense Board, and after a thorough review of the negative impact of officers’ involvement in partisan politics, we are issuing a firm warning to these servicemen to discontinue these practices and stop any detrimental social media activities,” stressed Koang.

According to the army spokesperson, failure to comply with these orders will lead to disciplinary measures, including the loss of the opportunity for integration into the organized forces.

(ST)