Changson’s top security advisor resigns, joins NAS under Kalid Boutus

January 17, 2020 Newsbeat

former Chief of General Staff of the FDP-SSAF, Gen. Dr. Sallam Alhaj (Photo: Supplied)

January 17th, 2020 (SSNN)—A high-ranking commander, serving as the top security advisor to Hon. Changson Lew Chang and former Chief of General Staff of the FDP-SSAF, Gen. Dr. Sallam Alhaj has switched allegiance from the leadership of the Federal Democratic Party/South Sudan Armed Forces (FDP-SSAF) and joined the National Salvation Front (NAS)—a splinter faction led by Gen Kalid Boutrus.

Speaking to our correspondent over the phone on Friday, the former FDP/SSAF Chief of General staff and Co-Chair of the Joint Defense Board (JDB) Gen. Dr. Sallam Alhaj explained that is decision is in conformity with the ongoing efforts to bring peace in the country.

“Yes, I can confirm that I have resigned from the leadership of the Federal Democratic Party/South Sudan Armed Forces (FDP-SSAF) and joined the National Salvation Front,” Dr. Sallam Alhaj confirmed, but without elaborating on what forced him to resign.

“This is to inform the people of South Sudan and the world at large that, I Lt. Gen. (Psc) Dr. Sallam Alhaj join National Salvation Front(NAS) under the leadership of Hon Khalid Boutros effective from Friday, January 17, 2020.”

In a press release issued on Friday, the senior commander said it took time to consider joining the National Salvation Front.

“I took this decision after serious deliberations and a serious consultation with the leadership of National Salvation Front(NAS). And after scrutinizing the personalities of the leaders of the various opposition groups.”

“I acknowledge that I have read principles and policies of National SalvationFront(NAS) and agree with them, believe in them and commit to work and maintain the principles, visions, political approach SalvationFront(NAS).”

“I appeal to all of our people to heed our call and to join the National Salvation Front (NAS), to which hopes relate to saving our beloved homeland.”