South Sudan

Nasir Clashes: An Urgent Appeal

Published

6 days ago

April 15, 2025

Introduction to the Conflict in South Sudan

The international community, including my home country of Canada, must thoroughly investigate the underlying causes of the conflict that led to the deadly confrontation between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army in Nasir and Ulang counties before condemning the incident. This conflict has resulted in the loss of lives, including those of UN personnel, and it is crucial that we understand the root causes of the violence.

Background of the Conflict

The revitalized peace agreement, signed in 2018, aimed to establish unified, trained forces to oversee the country’s security. These forces are composed of members from various political parties, with the intention of preventing the involvement of untrained militias that aim to cause disorder. However, the situation on the ground has been different. The White Army in Nasir and Ulang counties had requested that the national unity government deploy only neutral or unified forces to the area before the conflict escalated. They contended that the current forces were causing significant issues, such as the displacement of people, the devastation of civilian property, and the killing of civilians.

Escalation of the Conflict

Despite the requests from the White Army, President Salva Kiir and his party chose to utilize tribal militias from the Shilluk and Dinka groups. Furthermore, they directed the disarmament of the White Army in Ulang and Nasir, despite the White Army’s efforts to safeguard civilians from the destabilizing actions of Salva Kiir’s forces. This decision led to a deadly clash between the White Army and the SSPDF, resulting in the capture of the military facilities in Nasir.

Attempts to Alleviate Tensions

According to media reports, the First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar, made numerous attempts to meet with President Kiir to alleviate tensions between the SSPDF and the White Army. Unfortunately, President Kiir’s disarmament plan remained intact, leading to further violence and instability in the region. The situation was further exacerbated by President Kiir’s order to mass arrest members of the SPLM/A-IO, including military personnel and politicians, on the false accusation that they were complicit with the White Army in Nasir and Ulang.

Human Rights Abuses

The detention of senior members of the opposing group remains uncertain, with reports of severe torture and some even reported deceased. The Minister of Petroleum, the Chief of Staff of the SPLM/A-IO forces, and other prominent members have been subjected to severe treatment. The South Sudan National Security Service has declared its commitment to continue apprehending individuals suspected of having connections to the White Army, leading to increased fear and apprehension among the Nuer community.

Call to Action

It is imperative that the international community, including the United States, Canada, the African Union, Norway, Australia, and the European Union, take urgent action to avert a potential catastrophe in South Sudan before another genocide occurs. The international community must investigate the root causes of the conflict and work towards a peaceful resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the international community must investigate the underlying causes of the conflict between the SSPDF and the White Army in Nasir and Ulang counties before publicly condemning the incident. The revitalized 2018 peace agreement aimed to prevent untrained militias from causing disorder, but President Salva Kiir’s actions have led to further instability and violence. The Nuer community is concerned about the ongoing arrests of individuals suspected of having connections to the White Army, and it is essential that the international community takes immediate action to prevent further human rights abuses and promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Written by:
James Tot Mathiang
South Sudanese Canadian
BA, MS (GDP)-CPRRP, MSW

South Sudan

Police Deployed For Easter Security

Published

7 hours ago

April 21, 2025

Peter James

Security Plans for Easter Celebrations

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Gen. Abraham Manyuat Peter, has announced strong security plans to ensure a safe and enjoyable Easter celebration for Christians. The plans include the deployment of police forces to strategic areas to prevent criminal activities.

Deployment of Police Personnel

Gen. Manyuat spoke to journalists during the deployment of police personnel, emphasizing his commitment to protecting the public during the Easter celebrations. He noted that many criminals take advantage of such times to commit crimes, and the deployment of police is intended to prevent this.

Protecting People and Property

The IGP explained that during Easter, many people leave their homes to attend church services and celebrations, making them vulnerable to theft and robbery. He warned that thieves and criminals might target women and traders in their shops, and assured that police personnel would be deployed in areas suspected to be hotspots to prevent such crimes.

Cooperation with the Public

Gen. Manyuat urged the public to cooperate with the police and warned against engaging in criminal activities. He also advised the deployed police forces to establish good relationships with the public and to work with civilians in a respectful manner. The IGP appealed to police officers to remain disciplined and take full responsibility for ensuring the public’s safety.

Youth and Believers Urged to Cease Violence

The IGP urged the youth and believers to engage in meaningful activities during Easter, rather than resorting to violence. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order during the celebrations.

Background on Easter

Easter is a significant holiday in the Christian calendar, honoring the Resurrection of Jesus three days after His death by crucifixion. It marks the joyful conclusion to the Lenten season of devoted prayer, fasting, and penitence.

Police Reform Efforts

Recently, Gen. Manyuat outlined his plans to transform the police force into a professional and decent law enforcement agency. He emphasized the need for police officers to operate effectively, respond promptly to incidents, and utilize available resources to maintain law and order. The IGP also plans to promote ethical conduct, discipline, and respect for human rights within the police force to foster public trust and improve community relations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Inspector General of Police has taken significant steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable Easter celebration for Christians. The deployment of police personnel to strategic areas, combined with efforts to promote cooperation with the public and reform the police force, demonstrates a commitment to maintaining law and order during the celebrations. By working together, the police and the public can ensure a peaceful and joyful Easter season.

South Sudan

South Sudan Army Retakes Control Of Nasir Town

Published

14 hours ago

April 20, 2025

Peter James

South Sudan Army Retakes Control Of Nasir Town

Recent Developments in South Sudan

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) announced on Sunday evening that they have regained control of Nasir town, the capital of Upper Nile State’s Nasir County. This announcement was made by the army spokesman, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, through a statement.

Background of the Conflict

Nasir, located 180 kilometers southeast of Malakal, was seized by Nuer ethnic armed youth, known as the White Army, in early March. This takeover occurred after an SSPDF attempt to disarm local residents. The White Army is an armed youth group that fought alongside the main armed opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) during the 2013-2018 civil war.

Recapture of Nasir Town

The recapture of Nasir town by the SSPDF is a significant development in the region. According to the army spokesman, Lul Ruai Koang, the army had retaken the town, but he provided no further details on the circumstances of the recapture. Koang described the recapture of Nasir as "the greatest Easter Holidays gift for servicemen who had paid the ultimate price during its defense and recapture."

Reaction from the White Army

There was no immediate comment from the White Army regarding the recapture of Nasir town. The SSPDF spokesman stated that the military would release further information about the recapture.

Previous Developments

The announcement of the recapture of Nasir town comes days after the military reported taking control of Ulang County headquarters following a withdrawal by armed youth. This indicates that the SSPDF is making efforts to regain control of areas that were previously taken over by armed groups.

Conclusion

The recapture of Nasir town by the SSPDF is a significant development in the region, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in the coming days. The lack of comment from the White Army suggests that the situation is still volatile, and further clashes may occur. The SSPDF’s efforts to regain control of areas taken over by armed groups are ongoing, and the situation in South Sudan remains complex and unpredictable.

South Sudan

SSPDF Advances on Nasir Amid Fears of Fresh Violence

Published

21 hours ago

April 20, 2025

Peter James

SSPDF Advances on Nasir Amid Fears of Fresh Violence

Recent Developments in South Sudan

The situation in South Sudan is becoming increasingly tense as the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) are advancing toward Nasir County. This move is raising fears of renewed clashes with local armed youth known as the White Army.

Background Information

Ulang and Nasir counties share a border in Upper Nile State, roughly 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of the state capital, Malakal. The SSPDF’s withdrawal from Ulang County on Sunday morning has led to concerns about potential violence in the region.

The Withdrawal from Ulang County

Manpiny Pal Juach, the White Army-appointed commissioner of Ulang, reported that SSPDF forces and allied militia left Ulang’s headquarters around 8 a.m., heading toward Nasir. During their three-day stay in Ulang, they killed a mentally ill man, who was buried on Friday. Juach also accused the SSPDF of killing several cattle and said Ulang’s youth had withdrawn before their arrival, leaving the area empty.

Airstrike in Ulang

An airstrike in Ulang on Sunday killed two women and a child around 10 a.m. Multiple sources on the ground confirmed the SSPDF’s departure from Ulang. Upper Nile State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Mayen Akol said the SSPDF’s planned destination was their base in Nasir.

Tensions in Nasir

Tensions in Nasir have been high since mid-February, with sporadic clashes between the SSPDF and the White Army, a Nuer armed youth group the government claims is linked to detained First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Violence escalated on March 4 when the White Army overran the Nasir garrison, forcing SSPDF forces to retreat.

Previous Incidents

On March 7, a United Nations evacuation mission came under fire, killing Nasir garrison commander Lt. Gen. David Majur Dak, his bodyguards, and a U.N. staff member. The situation in Nasir remains volatile, and the advance of the SSPDF toward the county is likely to exacerbate the tensions.

Conclusion

The advance of the SSPDF toward Nasir County has raised concerns about potential violence and clashes with the White Army. The situation in South Sudan remains complex and volatile, with multiple armed groups and factions involved. It is essential to monitor the situation closely and work towards a peaceful resolution to prevent further bloodshed and instability in the region.