By Yiep Joseph
South Sudan President, Salva Kiir Mayardit has transferred eight military generals from the active list of Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) to non-active list.
No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper has seen a copy of the transfer circular signed by the President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of armed forces. Central Equatoria State governor, Gen. Rabi Mujung, is on the none-active transfer list.
“I, Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan and Commander-in-Chief of the SSPDF, do hereby transfer eight officers from the active list to the non-active list in the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF),” the circular signed by the President, reads in part.
Efforts to reach SSPDF spokesperson for confirmation and further details about the changes were unsuccessful.
Other generals transferred to the non-active list are, Lt. Marshall Stephen Babanen, the former Chief of Military Intelligence; Lt. Gen. Malual Majok Chiengkuac; Lt. Gen. ThiiK Achiek Hol; Lt. Gen. Ernest Dut Wol Upiou; Lt. Gen. Thayip Gatluak Taitai; Lt. Gen. Abud Stephen Thiongkol; and Lt. Gen. Simon Aguto Kok.
The circular did not reveal the reasons for the transfers; however, some members of the public believe the decision may allow the generals to participate in politics.
Last week, President Salva Kiir dismissed Central Equatoria State governor, Gen. Augustino Jadallah Wani, replacing him with Gen. Rabi Emmanuel through a presidential decree announced on state television (SSBC).
Jadallah, a member of the ruling SPLM party and a popular figure in the state, had served as governor since May 2024. He previously held the position of governor of the now-defunct Jubek State.
Upon assuming office, the newly appointed Central Equatoria State Governor Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel called on the people of the state to embrace unity and reject division for the betterment of the region and improved service delivery.
“I urge all colleagues in the government and all political parties across Central Equatoria State to set aside our differences and work together in unity and harmony toward achieving the best interests of the people of South Sudan,” he stated.
Governor Mujung acknowledged the key challenges facing the state, particularly insecurity caused by holdout groups and disputes in Greater Yei, as well as frequent clashes between cattle herders and farmers.
He emphasized that these issues require a united and coordinated response.
He also expressed concern for the welfare of civil servants and citizens across the state, pledging to address these issues while maintaining integrity in governance.
The governor praised the contributions of his predecessors, noting that their leadership has built a foundation he plans to strengthen and expand.
Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of social cohesion and inclusive development, pledging to uphold unity among communities in the state.
Gen. Mujung linked insecurity to underdevelopment and youth unemployment, promising to tackle the root causes while pursuing peaceful engagement with armed groups.