SSPDF Says Juba Deployment Approved by President Kiir, Calls for Calm Amid Tensions
By Majur Chol Khor
The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has said the increased patrols and deployment of security forces witnessed in Juba in recent days was carried out with the prior knowledge and approval of the President.
In a statement released on Saturday morning following the general security briefing at Bilpham military headquarters, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said the deployment was executed with the prior knowledge and approval of the Commander-in-Chief of the SSPDF and Supreme Commander of all organized forces, President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
The capital has experienced heightened security activity since President Kiir departed Juba on Sunday, August 23, 2026, for a working visit to South Africa. Residents reported seeing armored personnel carriers and joint patrols on major roads and at outlets of the city, sparking anxiety and speculation on social media about the political and security situation.
According to officials, President Kiir is in Pretoria for high-level talks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The engagement builds on the longstanding partnership between the two countries, with Ramaphosa chairing the African Union’s Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan. The agenda includes economic cooperation, the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement, and preparations for the December 2026 General Elections.
The timing of the President’s absence has contributed to the unease in Juba. Historically, periods when the head of state travels abroad have been marked by heightened political sensitivity in the capital, with rumors of internal realignments and security reshuffles. While authorities have not stated what prompted the latest deployment, the SSPDF has in previous similar situations described such measures as ordinary procedures to safeguard public assets and deter criminal activities.
Addressing the briefing chaired by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol at Bilpham, Maj. Gen. Koang said the CDF reiterated his readiness and commitment to executing the C-in-C’s directives on the reorganization, modernization and professionalization of the SSPDF.
The briefing also covered the mobilization and training of forces, the promotion of peace and encouragement of peaceful coexistence, and the ongoing conflict in parts of the country.
In his address, Gen. Deng Wol glorified the sacrifices made during the war of liberation and discouraged the current violence, describing the ongoing war as senseless and counterproductive.
The army has urged the public to remain calm and go about their normal activities, assuring that the security situation in Juba is under control.
By Majur Chol Khor
Award-Winning Investigative Journalist | Author | PR Specialist | Documentary Filmmaker |
majurcholkhor@gmail.com
