The Government of South Sudan has firmly disowned recent remarks attributed to Lt. Gen. Johnson Olony Thabo, stressing that the statement does not reflect government policy or the position of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Addressing the media, the Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Hon. Ateny Wek Ateny, said Gen. Olony’s comments were made in a personal capacity and without authorization from the government or the military command.
“General Olony is the Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces for Political Mobilisation and Orientation. He does not command the army, as some people have mistakenly believed,” Ateny clarified. “It may have been a slip of the tongue. No government anywhere in the world can authorize the killing of even a chicken. The Government of South Sudan strongly distances itself from that statement.”
The minister said Gen. Olony has since expressed regret over the remarks, admitting they were made under the wrong influence and did not represent official directives.
Reaffirming the constitutional mandate of the national army, Ateny emphasized that the SSPDF exists to protect the country and its people.
“The role of the SSPDF is to defend the territorial integrity of South Sudan and to protect the lives and property of all civilians,” he said.
The government also reassured residents of Akobo, Nyirol, and Uror counties—many of whom have sought shelter at United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) protection sites—that the security situation is under control.
“We urge civilians to remain calm and avoid being caught in crossfire,” Ateny added. “The Government guarantees their safety and will continue to cooperate fully with our UN partners, particularly UNMISS, in carrying out peacekeeping and humanitarian operations in Jonglei State.”
The clarification follows remarks made on January 24, 2026, by Lt. Gen. Olony—who also serves as Commander of the Agwelek forces—while addressing his fighters in Duk County, Jonglei State. The comments sparked public concern and widespread criticism.
The government swiftly condemned the rhetoric, noting that it contradicts national security policy and undermines ongoing efforts toward peace and stability.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Ateny reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to peace, the rule of law, and the protection of all citizens across the Republic of South Sudan.
