SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol addresses troops at the military barracks in Ayod County. | Courtesy

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Santino Deng Wol, has urged military personnel to reject tribal politics and pursue political leadership through constitutional and democratic processes.

General Deng made the remarks on Saturday at the SSPDF General Headquarters in Bilpam during a meeting with SSPDF officers from the Nuer community of the Upper Nile region.

He said some individuals have sought positions of power through tribal affiliation instead of following democratic procedures since South Sudan gained independence.

“After the country gained independence, some began seeking positions and power through tribal affiliation. We shouldn’t seek power through tribalism,” he warned.

“The government of South Sudan has announced elections. You should go and nominate yourself if you are seeking a seat in parliament. This has nothing to do with Dinka or Nuer. The electoral district is what brings you to parliament and power,” he said.

The army chief stressed that political leadership should be based on the choice of voters through elections and not ethnicity.

He encouraged military personnel interested in public office to contest in the upcoming general elections by following the legal electoral process.

General Deng said candidates seeking positions in the National Legislative Assembly, the Council of States, or State Legislative Assemblies should obtain nominations through their respective constituencies.

He also reminded soldiers that the role of the SSPDF is to defend the country’s borders, protect national sovereignty, and remain politically neutral.

General Deng said maintaining internal security and enforcing the law remain the responsibility of the police.

“With the country preparing for general elections later this year, submit your candidacy if you want to run for a seat in the National Assembly, the Council of States, or the State Assembly. As members of the security forces, our role is to secure the borders, while the police secure the cities,” he added.

His remarks come as South Sudan prepares for general elections expected later this year, with political leaders and institutions calling for peaceful participation and respect for democratic processes.