Building Trust: The Need for Improved Military-Civil Relations in South Sudan
Clashes between the SSPDF and civilians in South Sudan illustrate significant mistrust, necessitating an improvement in military-civil relations. Historical context emphasizes the importance of community support, particularly through service initiatives such as healthcare and local engagement. The SSPDF should establish outreach strategies, emphasize troop discipline, and enhance public communication to build trust and support among civilians.
Recent clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) and armed civilians, notably in Nasir County, have exposed a significant trust deficit between the military and the civilian populace. This confrontation is not isolated; previous incidents have also arisen, such as the deadly clashes in Warrap State during disarmament efforts in 2020, which claimed over 80 lives, underscoring the fragile military-civilian relationship essential for South Sudan’s stability.
To advance this relationship, the SSPDF needs to prioritize engagement with civilians. Establishing a “military-civil engagement manual” could guide interactions between military personnel and citizens effectively. Furthermore, SSPDF bases must become institutions of goodwill, perhaps through initiatives like drilling boreholes for clean water, transforming the army’s perception from a burdensome presence to a supportive one.
Historically, the SPLA garnered immense civilian support during the liberation struggle due to their reliance on local communities. In contrast, the modern SSPDF, funded by the government’s oil revenues, must not depend on civilian resources. Strengthening ties through the establishment of healthcare facilities and offering health services would further enhance the army’s image and reduce friction with the public.
The SSPDF could also consider public rallies in partnership with local authorities and international organizations such as UNMISS. These events would provide platforms for discussing security concerns while fostering national pride and understanding the SSPDF’s mandate. Communication should be inclusive, utilizing local languages for clarity.
Community service days led by troops could demonstrate the army’s commitment to serving the populace. Additionally, the implementation of a troop rotation policy could ensure fresh engagement with local communities, addressing unresolved issues and promoting cultural exchange.
Maintaining discipline within the ranks is essential. Establishing a disciplinary body to address human rights violations would enhance public trust in the SSPDF. Engaging local media to facilitate communication between the army and citizens can further strengthen this connection.
In conclusion, the SSPDF’s success hinges on refining its engagement strategies. Investment in information and civil affairs departments will facilitate ongoing communication with civilians. By adopting innovative approaches to improve relations, the SSPDF can evolve into a trusted, civilian-friendly force of the people.
To foster a healthier military-civilian relationship, the SSPDF must adopt comprehensive strategies that include community engagement, service provision, and promoting accountability through disciplinary measures. By implementing these initiatives, the SSPDF could significantly enhance its public image, earning the trust and support of South Sudan’s citizens and transitioning towards becoming an army of the people.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
