JUBA, South Sudan — Escalating Conflict Threatens Peace Agreement Implementation

Challenges Facing South Sudan’s Peace Process

• Maj. Gen. Kuol Manyang warns of jeopardized peace agreement implementation
• Verification teams facing security risks in high-conflict areas like Nasir
• Need for urgent security measures before deploying teams

Verification Teams Facing Security Risks

Major General Kuol Manyang, senior presidential advisor and chair of South Sudan’s National Transitional Committee, issued a stark warning on Thursday regarding the escalating armed conflict and worsening security conditions in the country. These challenges are putting the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement at risk, which was signed on May 2, 2025.

During a meeting with the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), Manyang highlighted the serious challenges faced by verification teams responsible for inspecting troop assembly and training sites. In particular, he pointed out the dangers in high-risk areas like Nasir, where ongoing clashes have made movement unsafe without prior clearance from the Defense Committee.

“The current situation does not allow for the safe movement of verification teams,” Manyang stated. “Deploying teams under these conditions is an irresponsible move that endangers lives, requiring urgent security measures before proceeding with the agreement’s implementation.”

He emphasized that the committee is eagerly awaiting an assessment report that will classify areas based on risk levels to guide future deployments.

Delays in Peace Agreement Implementation

R-JMEC, on the other hand, reaffirmed its dedication to coordinating with the government on implementing Chapter Two of the peace accord, which includes troop unification. However, the body acknowledged that logistical setbacks and security issues have significantly delayed progress.

This warning comes at a time of renewed tensions in several regions across South Sudan, further straining an already fragile peace process. The need for immediate action to address security risks and ensure the safety of verification teams is crucial for the successful implementation of the peace agreement.

As South Sudan continues to navigate the challenges of post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation, it is imperative that all stakeholders prioritize the peace process and work together towards a sustainable and lasting peace.

South Sudanese Forces Demand Release of Hijacked Boats

SSPDF Orders Immediate Release of Seized Vessels

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) have issued a stern directive calling for the immediate and unconditional release of hijacked boats and barges in the region. The order comes in response to reports of multiple vessel seizures, including those carrying crucial supplies such as fuel belonging to the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC).

Threat of Punitive Action

According to SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, credible intelligence and complaints from various sources have confirmed that fighters from the SPLA-IO and the White Army have commandeered several vessels in Fangak and Leer Counties in Jonglei and Unity states. The hijackers have not only disrupted river transportation but also engaged in illegal activities that amount to piracy.

• Passengers and crew members held hostage
• Ransoms ranging from SSP 10 million to $50,000 demanded
• Cargo offloaded from the vessels

Concerns Over River Security

This directive comes at a time of heightened concerns over river security in South Sudan. Vice President Taban Deng Gai recently revealed that a fuel boat belonging to GPOC has been held hostage for six months, with hijackers demanding a ransom despite previous payments.

In response to these incidents, SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Dr. Paul Majok Nang, has ordered the immediate release of all hijacked vessels. Failure to comply with this directive will result in punitive aerial and riverine actions to secure the waterways and protect essential transportation routes in the country.

Conclusion

The hijacking of boats and barges in South Sudan poses a significant threat to both commercial activities and the safety of passengers and crew members. The SSPDF’s call for the immediate release of seized vessels highlights the urgency of addressing this issue and restoring security to the region’s waterways. It is crucial for all parties involved to cooperate and ensure the safe return of the hijacked boats to their rightful owners.

Warrap Governor Directs Armed Civilians to Return Disarmed Soldiers’ Weapons

Overview

In a recent incident in Tonj East County, 13 South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) soldiers were ambushed and disarmed by armed civilians. Warrap Governor Gen. Magok Magok Deng has issued a directive to community leaders in the area to persuade the armed youths to voluntarily return the firearms before the state government takes further action.

Details of the Incident

The incident took place on May 1 when a group of 13 SSPDF soldiers, traveling in a Land Cruiser, was attacked by armed civilians at a village in Tonj East County. The soldiers were surrounded and disarmed, with the armed youths taking away their weapons, including a machine gun. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the soldiers were able to return safely to their barracks, albeit without their firearms.

Governor’s Ultimatum

State Minister of Information and Communication, James Ayik Bak, confirmed that Governor Magok has given an ultimatum to the armed civilians to return the weapons voluntarily. The community leaders have been tasked with convincing the youths to comply with the directive. However, if the firearms are not returned voluntarily, security forces will be deployed to retrieve them by force.

Quotes from State Minister James Ayik Bak

• “The governor of Warrap State has directed the community leaders to talk to the youth to bring back the arms before the forces could be sent to retrieve the arms by force.”
• “They have been given an ultimatum to return these arms voluntarily. If they fail to do so, the forces would be sent so that they can be able to trace these youth who wherever to be forcefully returned by all.”

Conclusion

The situation in Tonj East County serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by security forces in maintaining peace and order. Governor Magok’s decisive action underscores the government’s commitment to addressing such incidents and ensuring the safety of both civilians and military personnel. It remains to be seen whether the armed civilians will heed the governor’s directive and return the weapons voluntarily, or if further measures will be necessary to resolve the situation.