SPLM Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Unity, and Democratic Transition in Christmas Message ‎

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‎Juba, December 24, 2025 ‎The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and a democratic future for South Sudan in a Christmas message issued by its Secretary General, Dr. Akol Paul Koordit. ‎ In the message dated 24 December 2025, released by the Office of the Secretary General at the SPLM National Secretariat, the ruling party extended warm Christmas greetings to South Sudanese citizens at home and in the diaspora, calling on the nation to reflect on shared values of peace, compassion, and national cohesion. ‎ “Christmas is a sacred season that calls upon us to reflect on the enduring values of peace, unity, compassion, and service,” the message reads. ‎ Peace, Elections, and National Cohesion ‎ Dr. Koordit emphasized that these values form the foundation upon which the SPLM was established and continues to guide its responsibility to serve the people and the country. ‎ The SPLM reiterated its dedication to: ‎ Peace and inclus...

SSPDF Begins Crackdown on Illegal River Nile Checkpoints ‎


Chief of (SSPDF), Lt. Gen. Paul Nang


‎The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have launched a major operation to dismantle unauthorized checkpoints along the River Nile in a bid to curb illegal taxation and ensure safe navigation for traders and civilians.

‎The crackdown, which begins from Juba in Central Equatoria and extends all the way to Malakal in Upper Nile State, is spearheaded by Lt. Gen. Theyip Gatluak TaiTai, Lt. Gen. Johnson Olony Thabo, and Lt. Gen. Marshal Stephen Babanen under the directive of the Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Paul Nang Majok.

‎SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang confirmed the operation, stating, “The removal exercise starts from Juba, Juba County, Central Equatoria State, all the way to Malakal town, Makal County, Upper Nile State.”

‎He emphasized that the goal is to eliminate illegal checkpoints that disrupt trade and burden river travelers. The River Nile remains a key transport corridor for goods and services in South Sudan, especially in areas with limited road access.

‎However, the presence of opposition forces along the Nile, particularly those loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO), may complicate the SSPDF’s efforts. 

‎According to reports, many of the illegal checkpoints are manned by forces affiliated with SPLA-IO leader and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, who is currently in Juba.

‎Civil society groups have expressed mixed feelings about the operation. Ter Manyang Gatwech, Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, welcomed the initiative but remained skeptical about its impact.

‎“I don’t think the order is going to be effective, though it is a good move because people are concerned about what is going on in the country,” Gatwech said.

‎International and Regional observers say similar attempts in the past have failed due to poor coordination between the SSPDF and opposition forces, and the lack of full implementation of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement, which calls for unified command structures and joint security arrangements.

‎With elections approaching and peace processes facing delays, the success of this campaign could serve as a test of the transitional government’s commitment to restoring order and boosting economic recovery.

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‎𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐊𝐢𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐏𝐋𝐌 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭