Change of Command at Bilpham HQ
At Bilpham headquarters on Thursday, President Salva Kiir Mayardit presided over a ceremonial change of command, confirming Dr. Paul Nang Majok as Chief of Defence Forces, succeeding Gen. Dau Aturjong Nyuol. The ceremony signalled continuity at the helm of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces.
Constitutional Neutrality Emphasised
Addressing senior officers, Kiir reminded the ranks that “the gun must never govern politics.” He directed the army to defend territory, citizens and property while refraining from partisan activity, a stance he framed as essential to the country’s fragile peace process.
Discipline and Professional Reform Agenda
The president urged Nang to tighten disciplinary codes, integrate disparate units and accelerate professional training started in 2023. Officials say the reforms are designed to mold a unified, modern force capable of cooperating with East African peace mechanisms.
Focusing on Soldier Welfare and Integrity
Beyond strategy, Kiir highlighted soldier welfare, citing timely salaries, healthcare and family support as “the spine of morale.” He pressed commanders to handle resources transparently, warning that corruption erodes public trust faster than bullets can secure it.
Regional Security and Economic Stakes
Analysts in Juba link the directive to regional security calculus. A non-politicised SSPDF could stabilise oil routes toward Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offering economic breathing room across Central Africa amid fluctuating commodity prices and shifting diplomatic tides.
Academic Insight on Military Professionalism
“Professional armies rarely grab power; they already hold respect,” observed defence scholar Dr. Akol Deng at the University of Juba, noting that sustained reform may attract more international training partnerships without compromising sovereignty.
Public Outlook and Next Steps
For now, the torch passed in Bilpham illuminates a path where barracks, not ballots, shape military careers. How consistently the new command follows that line will be watched closely by citizens eager for stability and investors scanning the horizon.