Kiir to form unified command next week – Tutkew

JUBA – President Salva Kiir Mayardit will next week form the unified command structure which is essential for overseeing the graduation of Necessary Unified Forces, said South Sudan presidential advisor on security affairs Tutkew Gatluak said Friday.

On 3 April 2022, President Kiir and his first deputy, Dr. Machar who doubles as the chairman and commander in chief signed an agreement to unify the command of rival security forces, a deal that eases political tensions in the young African nation.

Sunday’s agreement calls for a unified structure in the security services, including the army and the police, with 60-40 distribution in favor of Kiir’s side.

The parties signed a roadmap to chart the way forward on the implementation of the security arrangements of the revitalized peace agreement.

Presidential Advisor on Security Gatluak said the formation of a unified command structure will pave way for the graduation of unified forces.

“The parties have reached a deal on unified command and we are just waiting for a decree for formation from the president. We are only left with Sunday and Saturday and on Monday, we have to be on standby for the formation of unified command and each and every one of you will know his position,” Gatluak said.

Gatluak has urged the Joint Defense Board to start the preparation for the second phase of unified forces.

“We are working to graduate the first phase of unified forces so that we can start the phase two. We want to start sending soldiers to cantonment areas after the graduation and redeployment of the unified forces so that we can start the second phase of unified forces,” he said.

He said National Transitional Committee is going to provide food to soldiers in training centers.

“We want to start providing soldiers in training centers with food before the start rainy season because during the rainy season most of the areas will not be accessible by roads,” he said.