SSPDF orders civilian evacuation from SPLA-IO-held areas

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has ordered the immediate evacuation of civilians from areas under the control of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) in parts of Jonglei State, citing imminent military operations aimed at restoring security. In a press release issued on January 25, 2026, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang […]
SSPDF general’s words ignite fears of widespread civilian killings — Rights group

Human rights activists have raised grave alarm following incendiary remarks attributed to a senior South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) commander, warning that such rhetoric could fuel mass civilian killings and grave international crimes if left unaddressed. The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) on Sunday strongly condemned statements reportedly made by General Johnson Olony, […]
Activist welcomes dialogue, questions credibility without Machar’s SPLM-IO

A prominent civil society activist has welcomed the government’s decision to pursue dialogue as a means of resolving political differences, while warning that the credibility of the ongoing Elections Matters Dialogue could be undermined by the exclusion of the SPLM-IO faction led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of […]
UN Commission demands immediate de-escalation of South Sudan fighting

The United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has demanded the immediate de-escalation of fighting across the country, warning that renewed hostilities are placing civilians at grave risk and further undermining the already fragile peace process. In a statement, the Commission expressed deep alarm over the deteriorating political and security situation, citing intensified […]
Women, faith leaders call for immediate ceasefire as fighting resumes in country

Women mediators and faith leaders in South Sudan have issued an urgent call for an immediate ceasefire following a renewed outbreak of armed conflict in parts of Jonglei and Unity states, as well as in other areas of the country. The appeal comes amid escalating clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and […]
South Sudan’s President replaces Machar loyal MPs with interim SPLM-IO allies

President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed and appointed 11 members of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) in a move that reshapes the parliamentary representation of the main opposition SPLM-IO and deepens political tensions within South Sudan’s fragile transitional government. The changes were made through a Republican Decree issued on 7 January, citing Article 106A(2)(a) […]
I have not resigned: Oyet Nathaniel pushes back against online claims

Oyet Nathaniel Pierino has forcefully denied claims circulating on social media alleging that he has resigned from his leadership positions within the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army–In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO), describing the reports as unverified, misleading, and constitutionally unfounded. In a public briefing released this week, Oyet reaffirmed that he remains the Acting Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of […]
SPLA-IO denies Trioka’s accusations over NGO vehicle seizure

The Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO) has strongly denied accusations by Trioka linking its leadership to the alleged ordering of humanitarian organizations to surrender their vehicles in northern Jonglei State, describing the claims as misleading and inconsistent with its policy on civilian and humanitarian protection. In a statement issued by SPLA-IO Spokesperson Col. Lam […]
Court examines ransom, phone calls in 36th Machar trial session

The Special Court on the Nasir incident held its 36th session on Monday at Freedom Hall, focusing on alleged ransom payments and phone communications involving First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and the late Major General David Majur Dak, with Dr. Machar standing trial alongside seven senior SPLM/A-IO officials. During the session, the defense team […]
Yakani condemns SSPDF, SPLA-IO interference in Bentiu POC

The Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Mr. Edmund Yakani, has strongly condemned what he described as deliberate interference by elements linked to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO) in the Protection of Civilians (POC) site in Bentiu, Unity State. He warned […]