South Sudan conflict: SPLA-IO signals a new phase
The Sudan People’s Liberation Army–in Opposition (SPLA-IO) says its armed struggle against the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has entered what it calls a decisive phase. At the same time, it instructed commanders and fighters to show strict restraint toward civilians and comply with international humanitarian law.
January 25, 2026 statement from SPLA-IO operations chief
In a statement dated January 25, 2026, SPLA-IO Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations Lt. Gen. Wesley Welebe Samson commended opposition forces for what he described as courage and determination in fighting government troops. He asserted that SPLA-IO units were advancing toward Juba from multiple directions.
Juba advance claim and political messaging
“Your bravery marks a decisive turning point — the beginning of the penultimate phase of this struggle. We are advancing relentlessly toward Juba from all directions,” Lt. Gen. Welebe said. He portrayed the campaign as aimed at ending what he termed a rogue regime’s hold on power.
Jonglei and Upper Nile clashes raise civilian fears
The declaration comes as fighting reportedly intensifies between SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces, alongside allied community militias, in parts of Jonglei and Upper Nile states. The situation has renewed worries about displacement and civilian casualties in areas already facing severe humanitarian pressures.
Civilian protection orders and bans on revenge attacks
Alongside assertive language, Lt. Gen. Welebe issued direct orders against abuses and revenge attacks, arguing such acts would undermine SPLA-IO’s stated goals. “We fight for liberation, not vengeance,” he said, rejecting ethnic cleansing, attacks on civilians, and indiscriminate violence.
Discipline and prisoner-of-war treatment under IHL
The statement also instructed commanders to maintain discipline and what it called military professionalism across all units. Lt. Gen. Welebe ordered humane treatment of prisoners of war, saying detainees must be handled under international humanitarian law, without mistreatment, summary executions, or retaliation.
Warning to civilians near combat zones
Addressing civilians near areas of current or anticipated fighting, Lt. Gen. Welebe urged residents to move away from military installations, government positions, and expected battle zones. “This is not a suggestion — it is a matter of life and death,” the statement said.
Access constraints and concern over peace stability
Lt. Gen. Welebe concluded by describing SPLA-IO forces as liberators and promising an inclusive future after the war, while claiming the conflict’s end was approaching. The statement noted that independent verification remains limited due to restricted access to affected areas.
For regional and international observers, the messaging illustrates an increasingly confrontational tone between rival military leaders. Analysts warn that renewed hostilities could further strain South Sudan’s fragile peace and deepen the humanitarian emergency.