SSOA military officers warned against meddling in politics

By Awan Achiek

The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has warned military officers from the opposition South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) against meddling in politics.

Maj. Gen Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF Spokesman said the warning came after Gen. Garang Akol Ayii, Director of Procurement found out that some officers from SSOA waiting for the second phase of the unification of the army command were engaging in politics.

“The co-chair of the Joint Defense Board had observed with great concern the involvement and meddling in politics of officers from SSOA, who are waiting for the unification of the 2nd echelon of command,” Koang said in a statement seen by Dawn on Thursday.

Koang advised military officers to stay away from engaging in the spread of hate speech on social media.

“Failure to comply with above-mentioned orders and directives will result in taking disciplinary and punitive measures against those involved, including forfeiting one’s opportunity to be integrated into the organized forces,” he revealed.

In January 2022, President Salva Kiir Mayardit issued an order banning active army officers from wading into politics.

The presidential order prohibited military officers from taking part in youth and women organizations as well in spread of hate speech on social media.