Heavy Army deployment in Juba amid Protest Rumors, Army Urges Calm
The South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) has appealed to the residents of Juba to remain calm following the deployment of a significant military presence in the capital city on Monday.
Maj. Gen. Lual Ruai Koang, the SSPDF spokesman, reassured the public that the heightened security is intended to ensure a peaceful Martyrs’ Day commemoration on 30 July.
He emphasized that there is no cause for concern as the military’s increased visibility is part of a broader strategy to safeguard the festivities.
He said, “We have been ramping up security within and around Juba in strategic locations in preparation for the day.” “Added that, the entertainment centers have large screens that have been set up for people to watch the Olympic Games because we expect large crowds and aim to prevent any unruly behavior.”
According to protests allegation in Juba, Juba has witnessed today heavy deployment of Soldiers throughout Juba amid widespread rumors of impending protests.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing military vehicles and armed personnel stationed at key intersections and government buildings. This heightened military presence follows alleged protest by citizens.
The army spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, has urged calm, explaining the deployment is for Martyrs Day preparations.
Residents have observed a rise in military checkpoints and patrols throughout Juba, prompting some to voice apprehension about the increased security measures. The statement by the army’s spokesperson was intended to address these concerns and highlight the importance of public cooperation during the event.
Martyrs’ Day, held annually on 30 July, commemorates those who died during the struggle for South Sudan’s independence. They include Dr. John Garang, the leader of the SPLM-SPLA who died in a helicopter crash on 30 July 2005.
Coincidentally, a group calling itself the “SSD Citizens Salvation Group” over the weekend placed posters in some parts of Juba ordering traders to close their businesses from Monday.
“This cautiously serves to inform every one of you to kindly leave your business closed starting from Monday for your own safety and that of your business as well,” the poster reads in part. “Due to the current deteriorating economic crisis that has continually inflicted huge consequences on every South Sudanese across the country and the government is keeping its mouth shut, we, the “Salvation Group,” took this lead to ask the government to step aside for another because out trust for you have made us suffer for more than 13 years.”
“This is not the kind of country our parents fought for, this is the kind of country our parents fought against,” it added.
The army and other authorities however did not comment on the posters.
