Armed Forces Apologise, Agree to Vacate Civilian Facilities in Nimule

(NIMULE, EASTERN EQUATORIA) – A landmark civil-military dialogue in Nimule has produced a public apology from the armed forces for past misconduct and a binding set of resolutions to pull soldiers out of civilian homes, dismantle illegal checkpoints and end arbitrary arrests.

The three day forum, which closed on 25 June 2026, was convened by the national and state Ministries of Peacebuilding with backing from the United Nations Development Programme and Nonviolent Peaceforce.

The talks ran under the theme “strengthening civil-military cooperation, social cohesion and inclusive governance” through the Peace Community Cohesion Project.

Delegates agreed on a joint programme to reject tribalism, hate speech and propaganda and to put reconciliation and healing at the centre of community life.

The accord orders the government to relocate organised forces stationed in private residences, enforce stricter military discipline, and create a clear channel for civilian complaints.

It also directs authorities to remove unauthorised checkpoints along the highway and stop irregular cash collections by men in uniform. A monitoring body will be set up to check compliance.

The Ministry of Peacebuilding, working with faith leaders and development partners, will run healing sessions and human rights training for the organised forces.

The government also pledged to roll out civic education ahead of the elections and to support the voluntary return of South Sudanese refugees, with special attention to the Madi community in neighbouring countries.

A senior officer of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, Lt Gen Ashhab Khamis Fahal, who heads Moral Orientation and Chaplaincy, called on both the army and civilians to protect the newly built relationship.

Nimule Municipal Council Mayor Caesar Longa Fuli described the dialogue as a powerful instrument for breaking down barriers and healing old wounds, and said the government was fully committed to carrying out every resolution.

UNDP Representative Margret Athansio Lado pledged continued support for efforts that bridge the gap between civilians and security forces to guarantee the rule of law.