Building Trust: The SSPDF’s Path to Becoming an Army of the People

Clashes between the SSPDF and armed civilians reveal significant mistrust in South Sudan. Historical reliance on civilian support suggests that the military must strengthen its relationship with local communities. Proposals include engaging in community service, establishing health facilities, and enhancing communication via local media to foster goodwill and public trust.

Recent clashes in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, between the South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) and armed civilians, known as the “White Army,” reflect a significant mistrust between the national military and the civilian populace. This conflict is indicative of ongoing tensions, as similar incidents, such as those in August 2020 in Warrap State, have led to substantial loss of life during disarmament efforts.

The effectiveness of South Sudan’s military hinges on a robust relationship with civilians. Strengthening this trust is essential for the development of a modern and capable army. Advancements in military strategy cannot replace the need for a strong human element within the forces.

The SSPDF must actively seek to establish positive relationships with the communities it serves. Developing a military-civil engagement manual could better guide army interactions with civilians, ensuring respectful and collaborative relationships that build mutual trust.

Army installations should serve as sources of goodwill, providing essential community services. For instance, engaging in projects like drilling boreholes to supply water can enhance public perception of the army, which should be viewed as a protector rather than as an antagonist or competitor for limited resources.

Historically, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) relied on civilian support during the liberation struggle between 1983 and 2005. Today, the SSPDF, funded by government revenues from oil and taxation, must prioritize community relations and reduce dependency on civilian resources.

To further this relationship, the SSPDF could establish health facilities near troop stations, offering medical services to both soldiers and civilians. This would not only provide immediate health benefits but also foster goodwill toward the military among local populations.

Monthly public rallies, conducted in partnership with local authorities and international organizations like the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), could also strengthen military-civilian ties. These events would address community concerns, enhance the army’s visibility, and clarify its operations and objectives.

A community service day, involving troops in local projects such as waste collection or road maintenance, can illustrate the army’s commitment to public welfare, thereby improving relations with the community.

Implementing troop rotation policies would help soldiers engage with diverse communities and allow for the timely addressing of local issues. Regularly rotating units limits the potential for lingering grievances and broadens soldiers’ understanding of South Sudan’s cultural complexities.

Maintaining discipline is critical, and the establishment of a disciplinary committee within each unit is necessary to handle human rights violations. Holding soldiers accountable will bolster public trust in the SSPDF and affirm its commitment to justice.

Utilizing local media channels to communicate with civilians is essential. Army commanders can work with various community leaders to create platforms for discussing security issues and reinforcing community engagement.

In conclusion, the SSPDF’s pathway to becoming a true army of the people hinges on enhancing relationships with civilians through thoughtful engagement and initiatives. By prioritizing community service, establishing health facilities, and fostering open communication, the SSPDF can earn the trust and support of South Sudan’s citizens. The writer, Oyet Patrick Charles, is a journalist and lawyer, currently serving as the Chairperson of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan. For further correspondence, he can be reached at [email protected]. The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the writer, and the authenticity of any claims remains the author’s responsibility, distinct from Radio Tamazuj’s editorial stance.

The SSPDF’s future success relies on cultivating trust and cooperation with local communities. By implementing practical measures such as health facilities, community engagements, and transparent communication, the national army can transform into a protector of the people rather than an entity that breeds suspicion. Collaborative efforts and a commitment to community welfare will ultimately position the SSPDF as an army of the people in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org