<p >The Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, is intensifying the integration of former SPLA-IO forces into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in a move aimed at improving security and consolidating peace.<o:p></o:p></p><p data-start="399" data-end="586" >Governor Rimbasa, alongside SSPDF Division 6 commanders and former SPLM-IO Sector 6 leadership, met officers who defected in 2025 and are awaiting full integration into the national army.<o:p></o:p></p><p data-start="588" data-end="775" >During a visit to Brigade 16, the governor noted that delays in the integration process had left many forces idle, contributing to insecurity, looting, and violence in parts of the state.<o:p></o:p></p><p data-start="777" data-end="913" >He added that the forces are now being organized, with some to be sent to Juba for official ranking and promotion as part of the integration process.<o:p></o:p></p><p data-start="1066" data-end="1196" >The governor reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the process is completed and properly reported to the national government.<o:p></o:p></p><p data-start="1198" data-end="1349" >Former SPLM-IO Sector 6 Commander Edward Razig Joseph, who defected with more than 1,280 fighters in April 2025, said the exercise is progressing well.<o:p></o:p></p>
