South Sudan army denies bribery allegations against top generals

JUBA – The South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) has dismissed allegations that senior army generals were bribed by the speaker of the country’s parliament, Jemma Nunu Kumba, to launch attacks on positions held by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) in Western Equatoria State.

SSPDF spokesman Major General Lul Ruai Koang addressed the press on Monday in Juba, responding to what he described as “serious allegations” circulating in a WhatsApp message. He stated that the accusations, which implicate two senior generals and the speaker of parliament, are baseless and intended to tarnish the reputation of the officers.

Lul outlined the specific allegations contained in the WhatsApp message, which he said linked the alleged bribery to a political dispute between the speaker and the state governor.

“We came across a lengthy WhatsApp message that contained serious allegations against two senior generals from the SSPDF: one against Major General James Akech, the commander of the 6th Infantry Division, and the other against Brigadier General James Nando, who is in charge of the 2nd Mobile Infantry Brigade. The person being implicated is the Right Honorable Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of the National Transitional Assembly,” he told reporters.

He detailed the accusations, stating that the message claimed Speaker Nunu Kumba bribed the generals to attack SPLA-IO positions.

“Basically, an allegation [is] there is a political problem between the Right Honorable Speaker and the state governor. It claims that due to this conflict, Honorable Nunu decided to bribe SSPDF commanders in the area. Specifically, it is alleged that she provided $32,000 to General Akech Adim to facilitate attacks on SPLA-IO positions. Similarly, it is alleged that she gave General Nando $5,000 to go to Nagero County to start training for attacks on SPLA-IO positions,” he explained.

Lul categorically denied the allegations, stating that General Akech had not met with Speaker Nunu Kumba since 2023. He challenged anyone with evidence to the contrary to come forward.

“Based on the information I received from them and with approval from the command of the SSPDF, I would like to take this opportunity to dismiss these allegations against the officers I have mentioned. General Akech has not met the Right Honorable Nunu since 2023. If anyone has proof or evidence beyond a reasonable doubt disputing our account—that our officers were bribed—they should present such evidence,” he said.

The senior army commander further warned that the SSPDF would take legal action against those responsible for spreading the accusations.