The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have recently announced their decision to allocate leadership positions within the army and defense ministry to officers from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA).

This allocation adheres to the security arrangements outlined in the 2018 peace deal.

Chief of Defense Forces, General Santino Deng Wol, made the announcement during a briefing held at the Army General Headquarters (GHQs) in Bilpam on Tuesday.

In an interview with Radio Tamazuj on the same day, Major General Lul Ruai Koang, the spokesperson for the SSPDF, explained that this allotment signifies the unification of the second level of command between the SSPDF, SPLA-IO, and SSOA.

“Specific positions within the SSPDF have been designated for officers from the SPLA-IO and SSOA,” Major General Lul stated. He further added, “The SSPDF will retain 211 positions, while the SPLA-IO and SSOA will take 106 and 33 positions, respectively.”

The army spokesperson highlighted that the General Headquarters is currently awaiting the submission of officer lists for the designated positions. Appointments will be made once President Salva Kiir confirms their ranks.

SPLA-IO and SSOA spokespersons could not immediately be reached for comment.