The deployment of the Regional Protection Force in Juba needs to be reviewed because the city is “not under any security threat”, the SPLA spokesperson has told Eye Radio.

The UN Security Council approved the 4,000-strong force last year, a month after the outbreak of deadly violence in Juba.

It’s mandated to protect key installations such as the airport, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and use all means to prevent attacks from any armed groups.

“There is a need for its mandate to be reviewed in the light of the current reality,” Brig. Ruai said.

Brig. – Gen. Lul Ruai says the RPF should instead deploy to other areas where there is ongoing violence.

“There is stability in Juba; and therefore, we said it is high time the Regional Protection Force and UNMISS went to hotspots where their services are needed,” he continued, saying the key installations such as the airport are being protected by the SPLA.

Last evening, UNMISS told Eye Radio in an emailed statement that it was addressing the matter with the government.