By Chol D. Johnson
The government has dismissed reports alleging forced conscription of civilians into the national army amid ongoing conflict in parts of the country.
Speaking to the media, Ateny Wek Ateny, Minister of ICT and Postal Services, denied claims that authorities are forcibly recruiting young people into the armed forces.
“I am not aware that there is any conscription in this country,” Ateny said.
He emphasised that joining the military remains voluntary, describing it as a civic duty for citizens willing to defend their country.
“Joining the army is voluntary for every citizen who is willing to serve and protect the nation,” he added, noting that conscription would only be considered under exceptional circumstances involving national defense.
The minister’s remarks come amid growing allegations from some communities and on social media claiming that civilians, particularly youth, are being forcefully recruited into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Ateny dismissed the claims, arguing that the current conflict situation does not justify forced recruitment.
“Fighting within our own territory does not require forcing people to join the army. Forced recruitment is typically associated with defending the country against external threats,” he said.
He further suggested that such allegations may be politically motivated, accusing critics of attempting to create instability.
“It is those who want to put South Sudan into political limbo who are spreading such claims,” he stated.
Ateny also called on the media to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication.
“You cannot claim forced conscription without credible evidence, such as verified testimonies or documented cases,” he urged.
The allegations emerged following reports that SSPDF forces engaged in clashes with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in parts of the country had begun recruiting civilians in conflict-affected areas.
However, the government maintains that no such forced recruitment policy exists.