Clashes between the SSPDF and the White Army in Nasir County have resulted in civilian casualties and widespread displacement. Local leader Ter Chuol Gatkuoth reported that government assurances of peace were broken with renewed attacks, intensifying community fears. Calls for adherence to ceasefire agreements and the deployment of protective forces have been made amid these ongoing hostilities.
Clashes have erupted in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the local armed group known as the White Army, leading to civilian casualties and mass displacement. The fighting started on Monday and features intense machine gunfire and aerial bombardments. Local youth leader Ter Chuol Gatkuoth reported that the violence began despite assurances from government soldiers that there would be no fighting.
Gatkuoth highlighted that many residents returned under the belief that peace had been established, only to encounter renewed attacks. Accusations of targeted violence against civilians by government forces have fueled frustrations among the local population, which feels increasingly alienated from the national government. In the wake of ongoing conflict since mid-February, concerns about the security situation have intensified, particularly with the deployment of additional military forces.
Communities are apprehensive that this military buildup could lead to further civilian casualties or a disarmament campaign. They have appealed for the deployment of the Necessary Unified Force, as stipulated in the 2018 peace agreement. Nasir County Commissioner Gatluak Lew confirmed the ongoing fighting but refrained from providing additional details, citing the need for further clarification.
SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang acknowledged the military operations, yet mentioned that difficulties in communication have hindered the gathering of timely information. He assured that an update would be provided as soon as possible. Ter Manyang Gatwech, Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, warned that this resurgence of violence jeopardizes the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
The renewed hostilities reportedly began when a White Army member was killed by SSPDF forces in Nasir town. Gatwech urged both parties to adhere to the ceasefire established in 2017 and emphasized the necessity of dialogue to prevent further escalation. He stated that political leaders would bear responsibility for any deterioration that might lead to widespread war due to mishandling the current crisis.
The ongoing clashes in Nasir County highlight the fragile security situation in Upper Nile State, exemplified by accusations against government forces targeting civilians. The violence threatens peace efforts and the implementation of prior agreements. There is an urgent call for dialogue and adherence to ceasefire agreements to avert further escalation. The community continues to seek protection and a reprioritization of civilian safety amidst turbulent conflicts.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
