The South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) has publicly endorsed Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel’s recent appeal for all political parties to dismantle their military wings and recognize the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) as the sole legitimate national army.
Dr. Bol Mel, who also serves as the First Deputy Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and heads the Economic Cluster, made the call during his swearing-in ceremony on May 23. He emphasized that a unified national army is essential for peace and stability, stating, “All political parties are not allowed to have a military wing. The South Sudan People’s Defense Force is the only legitimate army.”
In a statement following a leadership meeting, SSOA Chairperson Josephine Lagu expressed the alliance’s support for the Vice President’s stance, acknowledging the importance of consolidating armed forces under the SSPDF to ensure national unity and the successful implementation of the peace agreement.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts to integrate opposition forces into the national army, a key component of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement. The SSOA’s endorsement signals a commitment to these integration efforts and a move towards a more unified political and military structure in South Sudan.
The call for disbanding military wings has been met with varying responses from other political factions. While some have expressed willingness to comply, others have raised concerns about the timing and implementation of such measures. The government continues to engage with all parties to facilitate a smooth transition towards a unified national army.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts to integrate opposition forces into the national army, a key component of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement. The SSOA’s endorsement signals a commitment to these integration efforts and a move towards a more unified political and military structure in South Sudan.
The call for disbanding military wings has been met with varying responses from other political factions. While some have expressed willingness to comply, others have raised concerns about the timing and implementation of such measures. The government continues to engage with all parties to facilitate a smooth transition towards a unified national army.
