JUBA — The Government of South Sudan has issued a new directive prohibiting the unauthorized dissemination of official presidential documents and regulating the conduct of armed forces officers on social media and other digital platforms.
The directive issued by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, takes immediate effect and applies to all organized forces across the Republic. These include the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), the National Police Service, the National Security Service, the National Prisons Service, the National Wildlife Service, and the National Civil Defence Service.
According to the Circular, it is now strictly forbidden to photograph, scan, post, or circulate any official document bearing the Signature of the President and Commander-in-Chief on the internet, social media platforms, or other public domains. This includes presidential decrees related to promotions, commissioning of officers, and operational assignments.
The directive further addresses growing concerns over the public display of military uniforms and rank insignia on social media following promotions. Officers are prohibited from posting images in uniform for the purpose of celebrating promotions or engaging in personal commentary online.
The government emphasized that military uniforms represent national service and state authority, and must not be used for vanity displays, social media engagement, or unauthorized public commentary on executive decisions.
In addition, all officers are barred from making public statements, comments, or expressions of opinion regarding decisions made by the President and Commander-in-Chief while in uniform or while identifying themselves as members of the organized forces. This provision aligns with Republican Order No. 27/2021, which governs public conduct by security personnel.
The Circular further outlines mandatory procedures for handling presidential decrees. All such documents must be delivered confidentially and exclusively to the respective heads of service.
Access is restricted strictly on a “need-to-know” basis, and original documents bearing the Presidential Signature must never be circulated outside authorized administrative offices.
Heads of organized forces are also required to submit a Consolidated Compliance Report to the Office of the President within 48 hours following the conclusion of any promotion or assignment exercise.
The government warned that violations of the directive will be treated as serious breaches of military and security discipline. Penalties may include stripping of rank, dismissal from service, and prosecution under applicable laws, including the SSPDF Act, the Police Act, and national security legislation.
The directive was issued under the hand of Hon. Africano Mande Gedima, Minister of Presidential Affairs, and mandates the Chief of Defence Forces, the Inspector General of Police, and all Heads of Security Services to ensure strict compliance across their commands.
The government stated that the measures are intended to protect the sanctity of the Presidential Signature, safeguard sensitive information, and restore institutional discipline within South Sudan’s organized forces.