Members of the organized forces take part in a civil-military dialogue in Nimule aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and community trust. Photo: Office of the Mayor.

A civil-military dialogue in Nimule has ended with the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) publicly apologizing to civilians for past misconduct, according to the Office of the Mayor of Nimule.

In a statement issued by Mayor Caesar Longa Fuli, the dialogue also adopted a roadmap aimed at rebuilding trust, strengthening the rule of law and promoting national reconciliation.

The three-day forum concluded on Thursday after bringing together representatives from the national and state governments, organized forces, religious leaders, civil society and international partners.

The event was held under the theme: “Strengthening Civil Military Cooperation, Social Cohesion and Inclusive Governance through the Peace Community Cohesion Project.”

The dialogue was organized by the National and State Ministries of Peacebuilding with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Nonviolent Peace Force.

Participants adopted resolutions aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and reinforcing respect for international humanitarian law and the rule of law across the country.

The agreement commits civilian and military leaders to reject tribalism, hate speech and propaganda. It also promotes reconciliation, peaceful coexistence and community healing.

To address concerns raised by local communities, the dialogue called for relocation of soldiers living in civilian homes, an end to arbitrary arrests and improved military discipline.

It also called for ensuring that complaints from civilians are handled fairly and promptly.

Delegates urged authorities to remove unauthorized checkpoints along the Nimule highway and stop illegal collection of money by members of the organized forces.

They also called for a monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance with the agreed reforms.

The measures, they said, would improve freedom of movement, support local businesses and restore public confidence.

The Ministry of Peacebuilding, together with religious leaders and development partners, was tasked with continuing peacebuilding efforts.

It will also lead human rights training for members of the organized forces.

The forum further resolved that government should intensify civic education ahead of the country’s upcoming elections.

It also called for voluntary return of South Sudanese refugees, particularly members of the Madi community living in neighboring countries.

SSPDF Assistant Chief of Defence Forces for Moral Orientation and Chaplaincy, Lt. Gen. Ashhab Khamis Fahal, called on soldiers and civilians to protect the renewed partnership built through the dialogue.

He also commended government partners for supporting efforts to improve civil-military relations.

Nimule Mayor Caesar Longa Fuli described the dialogue as an important step in breaking barriers and healing divisions within the community.

He said the government is committed to implementing all resolutions adopted.

UNDP Representative Margret Athansio Lado pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between civilians and security forces and promoting respect for the rule of law.

The dialogue ended with participants expressing hope that the commitments made in Nimule will strengthen community trust, improve accountability in security institutions and promote lasting peace across the country.