Malong appoints additional staff to SSUF leadership body

April 2, 2021 (JUBA) – Paul Malong leader of the South Sudan United Front/Army- (SSUF) has appointed a deputy chairman and deputy chief of general staff for his group.

In a statement extended to the Sudan Tribune on Friday, the group said Malong appointed “Maj-Gen James Ruach Dual as Deputy Chairman of the South Sudan United Front/Army”.

Also, he appointed Eng. Major General Daniel Riak Mach as Deputy Chief of General Staff for Training and Research.

On 26 March, Malong appointed Malang Kerbino Kuanyin Bol as the new military chief of general staff for the rebel group.

Further, he appointed Genl Dickson Gatluak Joak appointed Deputy Chief of Staff for Administration and Finance, Gen Agany Deng Baak as Deputy Chief of General Staff for Operations, Gen Philip Okuot Obich as Deputy Chief of General Staff for Military Moral Orientation and Gen Emmanuel Majur Majak as Director of Military Intelligence.

The SSUF and the Real SPLM of Pagan Amum are engaged in peace talks with Juba under the auspice of the Sant’Egidio community.

These appointments are seen as part of the group’s reorganization.

Malong a former close ally to President Kiir in his war against the SPLM-IO had been relieved from his position as SPLA chief of staff in 2017 before forming his group in April 2018.

The IGAD mediator rejected his request to join the comprehensive peace process but Sant’Egidio said it was important to engage all the parties.

(ST)