South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has ordered all soldiers serving as bodyguards to his officials to return their barracks.
Information Minister Michael Makuei who delivered the presidential directive said that state constitutional post-holders will be expected to use the police for security rather than soldiers from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army.
The move is aimed at reducing pressure on the military to allow soldiers to carry out their national security obligations.
“Anybody with bodyguards from SPLA should surrender them immediately,” said Mr Makuei. “Instead of using the army for protection, it should be released to perform its duties. All ministers and other officials are directed to act accordingly,” the order reads.
According to Mr Makuei, the presidential order was discussed and endorsed by the Council of Ministers at a meeting on July 28.
CGTN’s Patrick Oyet reports.
