By Sabri Dibaco
The 1,280 former SPLA-IO defectors began preparation for their integration into the SSPDF, as announced by the governor of Western Equatoria State.
Governor Daniel Badagbu describes the move as an important step toward consolidating peace and security in the state and South Sudan at large.
Badagbu announced a ceremony to promote 71 officers of the National Civic Defense Forces (NCDF) in Yambio, the capital of Western Equatoria State, where he emphasised the need for unity among all armed groups in support of the country’s peace process.
He said the integration of the former SPLA-IO personnel demonstrates the government’s commitment to implementing security arrangements and creating a unified force capable of safeguarding peace and stability.
“We have called 1,280 former SPLA-IO defectors to begin preparations for their integration. This is an important step toward strengthening peace and building one united national force,” the governor said.
The governor also appealed to SPLA-IO fighters who remain in the bush to abandon armed struggle and return home, saying peace offers a better future than continued conflict.
“I call upon our brothers and sisters who are still in the bush to return home. Let us unite and work together for the peace, development, and prosperity of South Sudan. War has already caused enough suffering to our people,” Badagbu said.
Speaking during the event, the governor congratulated the 71 National Civic Defense Forces officers on their promotions, urging them to uphold discipline, professionalism, and respect for civilians while carrying out their duties.
“Your promotion comes with greater responsibility. You must serve the people with integrity, protect civilians, and contribute to lasting peace in Western Equatoria and across South Sudan,” he told the officers.
The promotion ceremony was attended by senior military officers, state government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the public, who welcomed the governor’s call for reconciliation and national unity.
The integration of former opposition combatants into South Sudan’s organised forces is one of the key provisions of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
The agreement calls for the unification of government and opposition forces into a single, professional national army and other organised security services as part of broader security sector reforms.
Although progress has been made in training and graduating the Necessary Unified Forces, implementation of the security arrangements has faced delays due to logistical, financial, and political challenges.
Government officials and peace partners have repeatedly stressed that completing the integration of armed groups and encouraging fighters still outside the peace process to return home are critical steps toward achieving lasting peace, improving security, and creating conditions for development throughout South Sudan.