Oyet Nathaniel Denounces Violations Threatening Peace Agreement

Introduction

The SPLM–IO led by Acting Chairman Oyet Nathaniel has written to the African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, reiterating his group’s rejection of an alleged attempt in Juba to alter the structure of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU).

Key Violations

• Detention of several officials from SPLM-IO
• Removal of governors and ministers without consultation
• Dismissal of commissioners without due process

In his letter to the regional peace guarantors, Mr. Oyet denounced these violations and pointed out that they are threatening to derail the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.

Declaration of War

Oyet described the violations by the SPLM–IG and affiliated security forces as a declaration of war on their part, leading to attacks on SPLM/SPLA-IO-controlled areas, cantonments, and training centers.

He also highlighted the persecution faced by SPLM-IO members throughout the country, including threats, arrests, detention, and loss of lives and properties.

Call for Action

Oyet warned that the revitalized peace agreement is on the verge of collapse and called for the release of political detainees, including First Vice President Machar, to save the deal.

Internal Split

The SPLM-IO is currently experiencing an internal split, primarily driven by political crises sparked by renewed violence and the house arrest of its leader Dr. Riek Machar.

Hon. Oyet pre-emptively suspended several senior members in early April, accusing them of conspiring with President Salva Kiir’s government to replace Machar. The Juba faction rejected their suspension as unconstitutional and unfounded.

Government Response

Cabinet Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro announced plans to speed up the peace deal and proposed the government’s recognition of a legitimate SPLM-IO faction and the restructuring of leadership positions left vacant by detained or absent members of the group.

Dr. Lomuro emphasized the government’s commitment to peace and argued that the 2018 accord’s implementation cannot be held hostage by divisions within parties or parallel armed forces. The High-Level Standing Committee (HLSC) will convene soon to recognize which SPLM IO faction to allow for continuation in the implementation of RARCSS.

Conclusion

The situation in South Sudan remains fragile as violations and political tensions threaten to undermine the peace agreement. Oyet Nathaniel’s strong stance against these violations highlights the urgent need for all parties to uphold their commitments and work towards lasting peace and stability in the country.

President Kiir Commends Foreign Ministry’s Renewed Commitment to Strengthening U.S. and Global Relations

Juba, May 8, 2025

President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Monday received a comprehensive update from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation regarding its renewed efforts to bolster South Sudan’s diplomatic engagement with the United States of America and other international partners.

During a high-level briefing at the Presidential Palace, Minister Monday Semaya Kumba outlined a series of ongoing strategic reforms within the Ministry aimed at improving administrative efficiency, financial transparency, and international outreach.

The President was briefed on a wide-ranging transformation strategy targeting internal institutional performance as well as external engagement protocols. According to Minister Kumba, the reforms include modernization of diplomatic procedures, enhanced coordination with South Sudan’s overseas missions, and closer alignment with global diplomatic standards.

Also addressed during the meeting were ongoing discussions with the United Nations Security Council, alongside updates from the recent joint visit by the African Union Commission Chairperson and IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development) representatives.

These engagements reflect South Sudan’s increased participation in multilateral platforms and its intention to play a more constructive role in regional and global diplomacy.

President Kiir welcomed the diplomatic momentum and praised the Ministry’s initiative to reset and strengthen ties with key allies. He also reaffirmed his administration’s support for comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing South Sudan’s credibility and influence in global affairs.

“South Sudan must take its rightful place in the international community — not just as a participant, but as a contributor to peace, stability, and progress,” the President said during the meeting.

The renewed emphasis on diplomacy comes amid broader government reform efforts intended to improve governance, rebuild economic confidence, and restore international cooperation following years of conflict and instability.

South Sudan’s leadership views deepened U.S. engagement and strategic partnerships with multilateral bodies as crucial to unlocking sustainable development, securing peace dividends, and expanding the country’s global footprint.

JUBA: Ambush on South Sudan’s Juba-Terekeka Highway

Overview

Last week, a tragic incident occurred along South Sudan’s Juba-Terekeka highway, resulting in the death of a Somali national and the burning of a commercial truck in a road ambush. The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces reported that fighters from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) were responsible for the attacks.

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Details of the Ambush

According to Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the SSPDF, the ambushes targeted trucks moving in opposite directions along the highway. One vehicle was attacked and set on fire, leading to the death of a Somali national.

Second Attack

Another attack took place involving a 30-ton commercial truck en route to Gok-Machar in Aweil North County. Six passengers in a separate vehicle were hijacked and taken towards an SPLA-IO base in Bye Bye, where their cargo was offloaded into the nearby bush.

Rescue Operation

The National Security Service’s Internal Security Bureau, led by Col. Makoi Mayiei, launched a rescue operation and successfully saved four hostages, including one South Sudanese and three Sudanese nationals. The hostages had been subjected to physical torture and robbery during their ordeal.

Implications and Warnings

Lul mentioned intelligence reports linking armed groups from Terekeka County to the SPLA-IO in coordinated ambushes and robberies. He warned of targeted military operations against such collaborations and advised civilians and transporters to avoid nighttime travel due to escalating security threats.

Conclusion

The incident along South Sudan’s Juba-Terekeka highway serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by civilians and transporters in conflict-affected areas. The need for heightened security measures and vigilance is paramount to ensure the safety of all individuals traveling through these regions.