The Former Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament says there is a need to restructure the SPLA into a modern army.

Daniel Awet Akot told the Dawn Show this morning that for South Sudan to achieve lasting peace, corruption and tribalism must be put to an end.

He was speaking as the nation celebrates the 31st anniversary of the formation of the SPLA today.

“We have to go back to our principles and vision when we were fighting in one heart,” he said.

“Let’s avoid corruption….and tribalism which has become chronic.

“Let’s look back at our mistakes and correct those mistakes.”

SPLA, the national army, is comprised of mainly former guerrilla fighters. Some of them are former forces loyal to various generals who had rebelled against the government after disputes over results of 2010 general elections

Mr. Awet, a former senior SPLA officer, added that there will be a joint training program to improve the capacity of the security forces.