SPLA-IO Accused of Detaining Civilian Boats, Demanding $4,000 Along Sobat River ‎

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‎ Boat ferrying civilians  Nasir, Upper Nile State  ‎Authorities in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, have accused forces loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO) of detaining civilian riverboats and demanding ransom-like payments of up to $4,000 from traders and passengers along the Sobat River. ‎ ‎According to Nasir County Commissioner James Gatwech Joak, several boats traveling from Matar in Nasir County to Malakal were intercepted by SPLA-IO soldiers in Yakuach, an area in Nyirol County, Jonglei State. ‎ ‎“Our traders paid local taxes to SPLA-IO in Mandeng before setting off. But on reaching Yakuach, they were detained again and told to pay an additional four thousand U.S. dollars,” Commissioner Gatwech said. ‎ ‎He explained that the detained boat operators and traders were reportedly held for four days while armed men demanded more payments.  ‎ Some of the passengers were women, children, and patients traveling for medical treatment in Malaka...

Presidency Pushes for Swift Conclusion of Tumaini Talks to Ensure Political Stability


President Salva Kiir Mayardit. 

Top news:


President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called for an expeditious conclusion of talks between the Government and opposition holdout groups under the Tumaini [Hope] consensus in Nairobi. 

This report highlights a significant push by South Sudan’s leadership to resolve ongoing political disputes and pave the way for stability and democratic progress. 

The Tumaini (Hope) talks in Nairobi represent a critical step in addressing the country's political challenges, which are key to fostering peace and development.

The urgency expressed by the Presidency reflects the recognition of the need to finalize these negotiations promptly. 

With South Sudan preparing for its first democratic elections since gaining independence, achieving political consensus is not only vital for internal stability but also for building public trust in governance.


Key elements of the initiative include:

1. Unity of Purpose: Top political leaders are emphasizing collective efforts to address the nation’s challenges.

2. Inclusive Dialogue: The government has committed to ensuring that all voices, including opposition holdouts, are represented in the negotiations.

3. Focused Negotiation Team: The appointment of a dedicated team led by Kuol Manyang Juuk underscores the seriousness of this initiative.

Presidential Advisor on Security Affairs Tut Gatluak Manime says the meeting, which brought together key figures from the political parties, underscored the need for a united front in addressing the challenges facing the country. 

Tut also said the meeting resolved that negotiators should approach the talks with an open mind and a strong commitment to securing a durable peace for the people to pave the way for much-needed reforms.

The Minister of Cabinet Affairs Hon. Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro reiterated the Government's commitment to resolving the political conflict by ensuring that all voices are heard and all parties are included in the discussions

These efforts, if successful, could mark a turning point for South Sudan, setting the stage for much-needed reforms, economic recovery, and a transition to a stable democratic system. 

However, the success of these talks depends on the willingness of all parties to compromise and prioritize the nation’s future over individual or partisan interests.

This development is a hopeful step forward for the South Sudanese people, who have long endured conflict and instability.

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