Tensions in South Sudan’s Upper Nile region have escalated with recent airstrikes targeting armed civilian groups. Initial attacks occurred in Doma Payam, followed by incidents in Chuil Payam, with no casualties reported. The conflict is fueled by the government’s troop deployments and opposing community responses, raising fears of further violence as armed groups prepare to confront advancing forces.
Airstrikes have recently occurred in South Sudan’s Upper Nile region, intensifying tensions between government forces and the White Army, a group of armed civilians. Local sources indicated that the initial strike took place near Doma Payam around 8 am, targeting civilian-held positions. A subsequent airstrike was reported in Chuil Payam, Nyirol County, though no casualties have been confirmed from either attack thus far.
The conflict in Upper Nile escalated significantly since mid-February, following clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army in Nasir County. Initial confrontations near Nasir town resulted in five fatalities and many injuries, leading to a mass exodus of residents from the area. The local population remains wary of ongoing violence.
Further tensions arose due to the government’s decision to rotate troops in Nasir, introducing new SSPDF and Agwelek group forces under General Johnson Olony. The local community rejected this deployment, fearing that the incoming forces may threaten civilians or initiate disarmament actions. Instead, they advocate for the deployment of the Necessary Unified Force as per the 2018 peace agreement.
In response to the advancing governmental troops, armed youth from Nasir and Ulang counties are reportedly preparing for confrontation, raising concerns of potential violence. The situation has further deteriorated as allegations surface regarding ceasefire violations by the SSPDF, which SPLA-IO claims involved bombings of their assembly areas.
SPLA-IO spokesperson Colonel Lam Paul Gabriel attributed the escalation to violent actions that deviated from a initially peaceful troop rotation plan. In defense, SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang confirmed the deployment of aerial surveillance against advancing forces, asserting their readiness to engage if necessary to protect civilians. He warned opposing forces against continued advances, stressing the SSPDF’s commitment to civilian safety while indicating readiness to use decisive military action if provoked.
In summary, airstrikes in Upper Nile highlight escalating tensions between the South Sudan government and armed groups, marked by accusations of ceasefire violations and community opposition to troop deployments. The local population fears potential violence, prompting armed youth to prepare for confrontation as calls for alternative force arrangements under the peace agreement grow.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
