The Chief of Defence Forces of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, General Santino Deng Wol, has warned military officers against discussing army affairs on social media without authorisation.
General Deng said officers must not issue statements or comment on military matters online, stressing that only designated officials are authorised to communicate the army’s position to the public.
“Let me make it clear to all officers and members of our army: the use of social media to discuss military affairs is prohibited unless authorized. As I have repeatedly emphasized, no officer should take to social media to issue statements or comment on matters concerning the army,” General Wol said.
He identified the army’s official spokesperson and the officer responsible for its television programme as the authorised channels for communicating military information.
“We have an official military spokesperson authorized to communicate the army’s position, as well as a designated official responsible for our television programme. These are the authorized channels through which the army communicates with the public,” he said.
General Deng also warned officers against publishing unauthorised or unclear information and making statements targeting individuals on social media.
“We will not tolerate officers using social media to publish unclear or unauthorized information, or to make statements attacking individuals. Such conduct is prohibited, and any officer found violating this directive will face immediate disciplinary action,” he added.
He made the remarks at the army’s General Headquarters during a welcoming parade for the Caretaker Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Major General Ayor Akuoch Anko, who was accompanied by Deputy Minister Lieutenant General Marial Chanuong.
General Deng also urged military personnel to stay out of politics and uphold discipline, unity, professionalism and political neutrality in carrying out their duty to serve and protect the country.
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