Nasir Trial Adjourned as MP Gatwech Lam Puoch Begins Defense ‎

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‎The Special Court handling the Nasir incident has adjourned proceedings until Monday, June 15, after the third accused, MP Gatwech Lam Puoch, began presenting his defense. ‎ ‎Gatwech, a member of the National Legislative Assembly representing Nasir County, rejected allegations linking him to activities related to the Nasir incident.  ‎ He told the court that his actions were part of his constitutional duties as an elected representative and were aimed at reducing tensions in Nasir and Ulang counties. ‎ ‎The lawmaker said a press conference cited by prosecutors was intended to encourage dialogue, address rumors, and help prevent conflict rather than incite violence.  ‎ He maintained that he was fulfilling his responsibility to represent and speak on behalf of his constituents. ‎ ‎Gatwech also argued that the Nasir crisis should be viewed within the wider context of challenges facing the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement, citing concerns raised by various political act...
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SSPDF Begins Crackdown on Illegal River Nile Checkpoints ‎

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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.

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‎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.

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‎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.”

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‎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.

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‎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. 

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎“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.

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‎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.

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‎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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