Addressing the army and police in a recorded message, Ajak highlighted the dire conditions faced by the forces, including unpaid salaries and inadequate resources.
He questioned their loyalty to the country, pointing to their failure to defend South Sudan’s borders against encroachment by neighboring nations like Kenya, Uganda, and Sudan.
“You are not there to defend the Republic of South Sudan,” Ajak declared. “Look at our borders. What is happening to them? … We don’t see you doing anything. Where are you at the border?”
He further accused the forces of prioritizing the protection of President Salva Kiir and corrupt officials over the well-being of the nation and its citizens.
“Mile 14 is being taken by the Northern Sudan,” Ajak stated. “All the territories of South Sudan, even Congo is even encroaching our territory. Where is the military? Where are you guys? You have become only a force for protecting Salva Kiir and the corruptees who are in Juba.”
Despite these harsh criticisms, Ajak expressed his belief in the potential of the organized forces to serve as a force for good in the country.
He called for the professionalization of the military and police, emphasizing their crucial role in defending the nation and ensuring the rule of law.
“We believe that you people, you are our army,” Ajak emphasized. “We want to make sure that you receive your salaries, that the military is professionalized so that the military can defend the people of South Sudan, so that the military can defend the sovereignty of South Sudan, the Republic of South Sudan, the national interest of South Sudan.”