Transform SSPDF into professional force, Kiir tells new army chief

December 12, 2024 (JUBA) – President Salva Kiir has urged the new chief of staff, General Paul Nang Majok to transform South Sudan Peoples Defense Forces (SSPDF) into a professional army.

Kiir on Thursday witnessed ex-army chief of staff Gen. Santino Deng Wol hand over to Gen Majok.

He warned the army against involving in practices like corruption, saying it will tarnish their image.

“The SSPDF and other regular forces should not be involved in politics, [and] we will not allow anybody in uniform to engage in politics because you have a different role to play,” said Kiir.

He appealed to the army to focus on protecting the territorial integrity of the country.

Meanwhile, the army chief pledged to reorganize and modernize the country’s military.

He said the new army leadership will work towards improving soldiers’ welfare.

Gen. Majok, the former army chief of operations, vowed to ensure soldiers get modern equipment to enhance their work.

(ST)