President Kiir announces major changes in the army top command

President Salva Kiir has announced major changes in the army leadership, including the appointment of a new Chief of Defence Forces. 

In a decree read on the State Broadcaster – SSBC Television last evening, President Kiir, as commander in chief of the armed forces relieved Gen Gabriel Jok Riak from the position of Chief Defence Forces and replaced him with Lt. Gen Johnson Juma Okot at the same time promoting him to the rank of General. The President also relieved three senior officers and promoted three others to the ranks of Lieutenant Generals.  Those relieved are Lt Gen James Gai Yoac, Lt Gen James Kong Kong and Lt Gen Wang Chiok Koryom. The three officers Major Gen Botrous Bol Bol, Major Marshal Stephen and Major Gen Malual Majok have all been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General. 

The SSPDF spokesperson Maj General Lul Ruai says the changes announced last evening are routine within the hierarchy of the army to give officers the opportunity to serve.