The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, on Wednesday, May 27, accused opposition fighters of attacking military positions in Jonglei and Central Equatoria states, warning that the incidents threaten South Sudan’s fragile peace process.
Army spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang said forces linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition carried out attacks in Morobo County in Central Equatoria as well as the Waat and Motot areas of Jonglei State. Speaking in Juba on May 27, Koang described the attacks as serious violations of the ceasefire agreement that undermine ongoing peace efforts.
Despite the reported clashes, the army said it remains committed to the 2018 revitalised peace agreement and the unification of rival forces. Koang added that government troops had been instructed to stay in defensive positions and only respond when attacked. However, he stressed that the army reserves the right to self-defence under international law and national regulations.
The military also called on all parties that signed the peace agreement to recommit to dialogue and uphold the ceasefire to prevent further deterioration of the security situation. South Sudan has continued to experience sporadic violence despite the 2018 peace deal between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir Mayardit and opposition groups aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar.
Implementation of key provisions of the agreement, particularly the unification of forces, has faced repeated delays, posing ongoing challenges to lasting peace in the country.