Shifting Allegiances in Jonglei
Local officials in Akobo County say more than one thousand fighters formerly aligned with the South Sudan Opposition Alliance have joined the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition after a weekend rally.
The gathering, convened by SPLA-IO’s Third Brigade, drew soldiers, police, National Security Service personnel and SSOA officers, underscoring fluid loyalties in Jonglei State.
Reasons Behind the Defection
Brigadier General Much Dak Banang, the SSOA commander for Greater Lou, told the crowd he rejected a recent Juba directive to integrate alliance forces into the national army, the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces.
Banang argued the 2018 revitalized peace accord remains only partly implemented and said continuing military operations have burdened civilians in Lou Nuer areas.
Voices From the Field
“We do not agree with abandoning our cause,” Banang declared, announcing he and his troops had reported to Third Brigade commander Brigadier General Thor Gang on 27 December.
SSOA politicians in Juba offered no immediate comment, and the national army has yet to address the claim, leaving outside observers unable to confirm the stated troop numbers.
Potential Impact on Peace Deal
The SPLA-IO has recently overrun SSPDF positions in Nyirol, Uror and Akobo, incidents that analysts fear could spark a wider escalation despite the 2018 agreement meant to end the civil war.
Jonglei’s fragile calm now hinges on whether breakaway fighters maintain discipline and whether negotiations in Juba can accommodate their grievances.
Call for Civilian Protection
Thor Gang urged his troops to spare civilians and property while moving toward the capital, insisting the confrontation targets government forces alone.
He appealed to Bor and Murle communities along potential routes to grant safe passage, signaling an attempt to prevent the displacement that has scarred previous offensives.