Nuer Leaders Call for Dismissal of Minister Over Divisive Comments

Nuer community leaders in Juba are demanding the dismissal of Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro for his divisive remarks labeling certain Nuer-majority counties as “hostile” to the government. The backlash stems from Lomuro’s comments categorizing specific counties as either “friendly” or “hostile” based on their perceived loyalty to President Salva Kiir’s administration.

Accusations of Incitement and “Genocidal Profiling”

The Nuer leaders accuse Lomuro of incitement and “genocidal profiling” for his statements, which they believe exacerbate ethnic tensions in a country still recovering from civil war. Lomuro’s remarks singled out counties such as Nasir, Ulang, Akobo, Nyirol, Uror, Fangak, Ayod, Rubkona, and Panyijiar, alleging their alignment with the opposition SPLM-IO led by detained First Vice President Riek Machar.

Condemnation and Calls for Action

Critics have condemned Lomuro’s comments, warning of the dangerous implications of his rhetoric on ethnic divisions. The Nuer Leadership Peace Forum, led by Labor Minister Gen. James Hoth Mai, rejected attempts to downplay the controversy, labeling Lomuro’s words as a “dangerous escalation” that could undermine peace efforts in the region.

Appeal to President Kiir

The Nuer leaders have called on President Kiir to dismiss Lomuro, citing protections against discrimination in the U.N. Charter. They emphasize the need to address inflammatory language that could further strain relations between ethnic groups, particularly in light of existing tensions from recent conflicts in Jonglei and Equatoria.

Ongoing Instability in South Sudan

South Sudan, a nation that gained independence in 2011, continues to grapple with instability despite a fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar. The failure to establish lasting peace has raised concerns ahead of the scheduled elections in December 2026.

As tensions escalate, the Nuer community leaders remain adamant in their demand for accountability and unity in a country striving for stability and reconciliation.

Acting SPLM-IO Chairperson Rejects Government’s Proposed Peace Plan

Unilateral Decision

The Acting Chairperson of SPLM-IO loyal to detained First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, Oyet Nathaniel, has expressed disagreement with the proposed peace plan unveiled by Cabinet Minister Dr. Elia Lomuro. Oyet stated that the plan was not the position of all peace parties but rather a unilateral decision of the incumbent government.

Proposed Action Plans

Dr. Lomuro announced action plans to speed up the peace deal and proposed the government’s recognition of a legitimate SPLM-IO faction. He also suggested restructuring leadership positions left vacant by detained or absent members of the group. Oyet Nathaniel responded by stating that the plan presented by Dr. Lomuro was invalid as it was not reached at a meeting of the Presidency, Cabinet, and the High-Level Standing Committee (HLSC).

Opposition’s Stance

Oyet Nathaniel emphasized that the response seeks to legitimize violations of the peace agreement and is a unilateral position of the incumbent government component. He also distanced the opposition group from the White Army and called for the unconditional release of Dr. Riek Machar and all political detainees for sustainable peace and stability in the country.

Internal Split within SPLM-IO

The SPLM-IO is currently experiencing internal split following the house arrest of Dr. Riek Machar. Oyet Nathaniel, the acting chairman of SPLM-IO, suspended several senior members accused of conspiring with President Salva Kiir’s government to replace Machar. The Juba faction rejected their suspension, leading to a leadership crisis within the party.

Government’s Response

Information Minister Michael Makuei addressed the issue of vacant positions from the SPLM-IO docket and emphasized the need to resolve these vacancies for the smooth functioning of the transitional government. Makuei outlined the internal divisions within the SPLM-IO and clarified that it is up to the SPLM-IO’s transitional or interim body to request the appointment of replacements for vacant positions.

Conclusion

The disagreement between the Acting SPLM-IO Chairperson and the government highlights the challenges in implementing the peace agreement in South Sudan. The internal split within the SPLM-IO further complicates the situation, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation to achieve lasting peace and stability in the country.