The army of South Sudan enlisted over 2600 military for demobilization within two months.
The chairman of Southern Sudan Disarmament, Demobilization and Rehabilitation Commission, William Deng Deng, announced the number of SPLA soldiers to be demobilized in the state while launching the exercise in Torit yesterday.Mr. Deng stressed that the SPLA would extend the demobilisation exercise to all other states of Southern Sudan, including Western Bahr El Ghazal, Upper Nile and Jonglei.
Mr. Deng disclosed that the demobilized soldiers received resettlement packages and would be trained and supported in civilian skills.
The DDR chief urged ex-combatants to work hard to achieve success when reintegrated into their communities.
Eastern Equatoria state deputy governor Nartisio Manir Lolukei said the demobilization of the armed forces was an indication of peace in the region.
Mr. Manir advised the local communities not to despise ex-combatants for leaving active service.
He added the demobilized military would still contribute greatly as civilians in the building of Southern Sudan as a nation.