South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The South Sudan National Police Service is struggling to provide essential public safety services due to a lack of resources, according to spokesperson Maj Gen James Monday Enoka.
Police Spokesperson Maj. Gen Enoka made this disclosure during the official handover of office from outgoing officer Col. John Kassara.
Enoka warned that the lack of basic operational support is severely undermining police effectiveness across the country.
“We are not delivering services to the satisfaction of the public, and one of the major reasons is the lack of resources,” Maj. Gen. Enoka stated. “Mobility is a key challenge. In situations that require rapid response, we simply lack the means—vehicles, fuel, and other essentials.”
The situation is exacerbated by the country’s fragile economy, which has delayed the release of approved budgets.
Enoka explained the complex funding process, noting that while the police service prepares its budget annually, delays often occur at the Ministry of Finance.
“Even when our budget is approved by the National Assembly and signed by the President, it often doesn’t translate into actual funding. The Ministry of Finance is where the process stalls,” he said. “We are even struggling to get fuel for our vehicles.”
Enoka emphasized that economic hardship is a nationwide issue, not limited to the police. “It is the condition of the whole country,” he remarked. “The Ministry of Finance might be in a better position to answer when things will improve. But as of now, we are lacking the resources to operate.”
According to Enoka, more than 70% of police officers in South Sudan are untrained, further limiting the force’s capacity to carry out its mandate professionally.
“This is a serious concern,” he noted. “Without proper training and equipment, our officers cannot enforce the law effectively or ensure public safety.”
Earlier this year, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) outlined the need for police officers to operate effectively, respond promptly to incidents, and utilize available resources to maintain law and order.
Gen. Manyuat also expressed his intention to promote ethical conduct, discipline, and respect for human rights within the police force to foster public trust and improve community relations.
Economic crises continue to challenge the country; despite efforts to reform and professionalize the force through training and strategic planning, implementation has largely stalled due to financial constraints.
