Dynamics of Disconnect: A Study of the Structural and Socio-Political Factors Impeding Civil-Military Synergy within the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces

Abstract

This study investigates the structural and socio-political impediments to effective civil-military synergy within the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). Employing a qualitative cross-sectional survey design, data were gathered through structured interviews and documentary analysis from 40 purposively sampled participants, including military officers, government officials, political analysts, and civil society representatives. Thematic analysis of the data identified five interlinked barriers undermining civil-military relations: ethnic fragmentation, politicisation of command structures, absence of a comprehensive national security strategy, economic collapse, and a persistent lack of political will. Evidence revealed that ethnic and political divisions within the SSPDF foster mistrust, impede unified command, and diminish operational effectiveness, while overlapping mandates and fragmented leadership further weaken institutional cohesion. Comparative insights from other African contexts and respondent perspectives highlighted that previous reform initiatives have repeatedly failed due to elite manipulation, lack of inclusivity, and inadequate implementation of disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR) programs. The study concludes that addressing these root causes requires holistic, context-driven reforms that prioritise inclusive recruitment, depoliticisation, transparent promotions, and strategic leadership. Without such comprehensive interventions, South Sudan will remain trapped in a cycle of dysfunction that threatens both national stability and democratisation. This research provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners seeking to foster sustainable civil-military synergy and effective security sector governance in post-conflict environments.