The Influence of Defence and Security-Related Budgets On Conflicts and Formation of Militias in Jonglei State, South Sudan. (2005-2011)

ABSTRACT The study examined the influence of defence expenditure and securityrelated budgets on conflicts and formation of militias in Jonglei state of South Sudan and it was based on four specific objectives: (a) to determine the characteristics of the defence and security-related budgets in South Sudan; (b) To ascertain the level of access to defence and security related budgets by various groups and how this influences conflicts and formation of militias; (c) Analyze the recruitment, appointments, promotions and retirement procedures; d) Evaluate the level of service delivery to SPLA officers and family members and the factors responsible for the high level of desertions. The study employed a descriptive research design. SAQ were used to collect primary data from 200 people, using simple random sampling. Data analysis was done using SPSS's frequencies and percentages. The findings of this research showed that the government of South Sudan is justified in spending part of its resources on defence and security related expenditures as part of its duties to its citizens is to protect them and create an enabling environment for productive economic activities to take place but that this function is being performed without making use of scientific methods to determine the defence and security needs of the country. The study also found out that the relatively high allocations to security related expenditures and lack of accountability and structures to monitor compliance with disbursement guidelines is like a magnet drawing everyone to the defence budget. The conclusion of the research showed that there was need for the government to spend part of its budget on defence and security related issues as part of its basic responsibilities to the citizen of South Sudan and improve accountability. Further U e study recommends the implementation of the security sector reforms policy document by paying particular attention to the reduction of the number of personnel in the armed and security forces and improvement of welfare.