Finance Minister Pledges Salary Payments for Newly Deployed Necessary Unified Force

During a ceremony marking the commencement of the deployment of the Necessary Unified Force (NUF), Dr. Barnaba Bak Chol, the Minister of Finance and Planning, announced on Wednesday that the salaries of the newly deployed force would be paid based on the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget.

Interior Minister Angelina Teny had called upon the finance ministry to prioritize the protection of the country’s sovereignty and to stand ready to support the defense ministry during the deployment of the peace force.

In response to Minister Teny’s request, Dr. Bak assured her and the audience that he bore full responsibility for the logistics, food, uniforms, and salaries of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF).

Dr. Bak further revealed that he had informed Tut Gatluak, the head of the National Transitional Committee, that the salaries of the forces must be allocated starting from August 2023.

Expressing his joy at witnessing the graduation of the force at the Luri Training Center, Dr. Bak addressed the troops, stating, “I am happy to stand in front of you here today on this big day and witness your graduation on this wonderful day, I am very happy.”

The commitment from the Minister of Finance and Planning to pay the salaries of the newly deployed NUF based on the upcoming fiscal year budget demonstrates the government’s dedication to supporting and prioritizing the successful deployment of the peace force.

Such assurances provide a foundation of stability and confidence among the troops as they embark on their vital mission to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and contribute to lasting peace in South Sudan.