South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has made significant changes to the top command of the 4th Infantry Division of the SSPDF in Unity State following recent clashes in the region.
Maj Gen William Manyang Mayak has been replaced by former militia commander Maj Gen Matthew Puljang, known for commanding forces accused of abuses and child recruitment in 2015. Gen Mayak has been reassigned as the Director for Operations at SSPDF General Headquarters.
SSPDF Spokesman Maj Gen Lul Ruai Koang confirmed the reshuffle, stating that President Kiir redeployed Mayak to Juba while appointing Puljang as the new commander of the 4th Division, with Maj Gen Ding Adim as his deputy.
According to Maj Gen Koang, the reshuffle is a routine administrative measure taken by the Commander in Chief periodically. This move indicates a strategic shift in leadership within the SSPDF to address recent challenges and improve operations in Unity State.