SSPDF spokesperson seeks clarity on circulating travel restrictions

SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang says he has seen the document on social media imposing travel restrictions on senior military and government officials, which he says appears to have been issued at a lower level.

He says he will contact his superior to establish its status before providing further clarification.

“…I also saw it, and it is being done at a lower level. Let me get in touch with the boss first and then come back to clear the air,” Lul Ruai said.

The document, dated October 3, 2026, is attributed to the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence at Nimule Border Security and refers to orders allegedly issued on October 2.

It states that SSPDF officers and members of other organized forces, from the rank of Second Lieutenant to General, as well as senior government officials, are not allowed to travel abroad for three months without permission from the Commander-in-Chief and President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

The document lists directors-general, undersecretaries, ministers and government advisors among the officials covered by the reported restriction.

It was addressed to security organs and copied to several officials and institutions at the Nimule border, including the Tiger Division Brigade Two commander, the Assistant Commissioner of the Revenue Authority at Nimule and the Mayor of Nimule Municipality.

Lul Ruai has not confirmed whether the directive has been authorized by the senior SSPDF leadership or whether it applies beyond the level where it was issued.

The document has circulated widely on social media, prompting questions about its authenticity, scope and implementation.

The Nile Memos could not independently verify the document or establish whether the reported restrictions are currently in force.