The president made the remarks on Thursday during a handover ceremony at the SSPDF General Headquarters in Bilpam, Juba, where Dr. Paul Nang Majok officially took over as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), succeeding Gen. Dau Aturjong Nyuol.
Kiir emphasized the need for professionalism, discipline, and political neutrality within the army, noting that the separation between military and political affairs is vital for South Sudan’s democratic growth and long-term stability.
“The President underlined the importance of discipline within the ranks and urged the new army leadership to continue the transformation agenda of the military,” the Office of the President stated.
He further directed the new leadership to prioritize the welfare of soldiers, uphold integrity, and work to safeguard peace and unity across the country.
According to the Presidential Press Unit, the president’s remarks aim to restore public confidence in the army, which has long faced criticism over its role in political conflicts and internal divisions.
Senior officials at the Eagle House described the change of command as “part of efforts to consolidate a professional and unified national army that serves the country rather than individuals or political factions.”
This is not the first time Kiir has called for reform within the military. In earlier directives to outgoing CDF Aturjong, the president urged him to transform the SSPDF into a modern, accountable, and professional force — a task many of his predecessors struggled to achieve.
Aturjong, a veteran of South Sudan’s liberation struggle, joined the SPLA in 1983 and rose through the ranks after years of combat experience. His political ambitions, including an unsuccessful run for governor in 2010 and his brief defection to the SPLM/A-IO in 2014, have made him a controversial figure within military circles.
Meanwhile, Nang, who first assumed the position in December 2024, pledged to modernize the army and improve soldiers’ welfare. However, nearly a year later, challenges such as child conscription, persistent insecurity, and the slow pace of force unification continue to undermine progress.
