By Lodu William Odiya
South Sudan’s government has released a statement citing that the on-going military operations in some parts of the country is a response to the security threats from opposition forces.
This is in response to leaders from the South Sudan Council of Churches regarding political, security and humanitarian situation in the country.
In the statement issued by the office of the president yesterday, the government said that the government shoulders the constitutional responsibility of maintaining law and order across the country.
“It is within this mandate that the ongoing operations across the country, including those in Jonglei state can be understood. These operations are not arbitrary; they are responses to security threats aimed at restoring stability and protecting civilians” the statement partly read.
The statement stated that between December 2025 and January 2026, armed elements of the SPLM/Army in Opposition (PLM/A-IO) splinter faction led by Nathaniel Oyet Pierino and its allied white Army, launched unprovoked attacks on South Sudan Peoples Defense Forces (SSPDF) strategic positions in Waat and Pajut and threatened to march to Juba.
According to the government, similar attacks took place in parts of Central and western Equatoria, as well as Ruweng Administrative Area among others. These ill-conceived operations drew a response from the SSPDF to prevent the spread of lawlessness.
They called on the SSLM/A-IO and all armed actors to cease its military activities and Prioritize dialogue in order to alleviate civilians suffering.
The government also remains firm in its commitment to peace, stability and the full implementation of the Revitalized peace Agreement as a framework for resolving national challenges.
“The government equally acknowledges the concerns expressed by the church over the impact of violence escalation on vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly, and women and condemns all acts of violence against civilians” the statement continued.
“Attacking civilians is a serious crime, the government has already stated that anyone found responsible for such crimes will be held accountable in accordance with the law” it further continued.
However, regarding the matter of dialogue, the government stressed that they had agreed that inclusive engagement remains a critical pathway towards a lasting peace.
The government believed that dialogue provides an opportunity for all south Sudanese political actors and national stakeholders to engage constructively on how to chart the path forward to the country’s future.
The government underscored that following the expanded meeting on 10 December 2025, where leaders of all political parties were represented, it was resolved that there shall be a structured dialogue on elections and post-election implementation of the provisions of the R-ARCSS.
“Therefore, dialogue remains a top priority for the government as a mechanism to foster consensus, address outstanding issues, and guide the country towards a peaceful and orderly transition” the statement read.
Additionally, government equally urged the faith-based institutions to consider dialoguing as their top priority in their day-to-day conduct.
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