The SPLM-N accuses the Sudanese army of initiating attacks in South Kordofan while denying responsibility for market shelling that resulted in civilian deaths. The SPLM-N claims the military has targeted their controlled areas and obstructed humanitarian aid, alleging war crimes such as landmine planting and forced recruitment. Civilians have fled in response to the conflict, with calls for urgent humanitarian intervention amid continued fighting.
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) has accused the Sudanese military of launching attacks in South Kordofan, rejecting claims that their forces shelled a market in Kadugli and caused civilian deaths. On February 3, the army reported that 44 individuals had died from the market shelling, attributing responsibility to the SPLM-N. SPLM-N leader Jatiago Amoga Dallman countered these allegations, portraying the military’s actions as aggressions against SPLM-N areas around Kadugli.
Dallman detailed specific sites of military action, including Kiga, Dashoul, Saraf al-Dai, Tulo, and Hajar al-Mak, claiming that SPLA troops successfully repelled military advances at Hajar al-Mak. He suggested the military’s actions were aimed at undermining stability in the region and hampering the distribution of humanitarian aid, which is planned by the Smarten organization, with 800 tons of aid scheduled for delivery from February 2 through February 18.
SPLM-N asserts control over critical routes between Kadugli and Dilling, with Dallman emphasizing their strategic advantage. Many civilians have reportedly fled Kadugli since last year to seek safety in SPLM-N territories. Dallman also alleged that the army deployed landmines around Kadugli, complicating civilian evacuations, and engaged in forced recruitment, including of minors—a situation he characterized as a war crime.
Sanaa Philip Matar, an SPLM-N spokesperson, stated that their forces defended against military aggression that began with shelling on Monday morning. Matar accused the government of exploiting civilians as human shields in Kadugli, blocking humanitarian activities, and detaining individuals, including children, in recent weeks. The Sudanese army did not return requests for comments, while independent verification of claims from both sides remains elusive.
The conflict between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) and the Sudanese military primarily revolves around issues of governance, safety, and humanitarian aid in South Kordofan. Since the outbreak of hostilities, various factions have accused each other of attacks and violations against civilians. Ongoing peace agreements aim to stabilize the area, but intermittent fighting continues to disrupt progress and humanitarian efforts, leading to increased civilian displacement and suffering.
The SPLM-N’s accusations against the Sudanese military highlight ongoing tensions in South Kordofan, particularly regarding civilian safety and military actions. The conflicting reports of violence, displacement, and humanitarian disruptions suggest a complex and deteriorating situation requiring urgent attention. The allegations of war crimes, including forced recruitment and the use of human shields, underscore the dire need for accountability and effective peace measures in the region.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
