Video Showing Over 1,000 SPLA-IO Fighters Defect to SSPDF in Ayod County

Ayod County, Jonglei State More than one thousand armed youth affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) have defected to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Ayod County, Jonglei State. Machar’s Defense Declares Juba Special Court Illegal: Court Mandate Expired, Demands His Immediate Release The defectors, who publicly declared their allegiance to the national army over the weekend, were officially received by Ayod County Commissioner James Chuol Jiek alongside senior heads of organized forces in the area. Commissioner Chuol praised the group’s decision, describing it as a “bold step toward lasting peace and unity” in the county.  Two Rebel Grounds and RSF Unites:  Rebel Forces and RSF Forces Regroup Near Sudan Border, South Sudan Officials Warn ‎ He assured the returnees of full government protection and urged other holdout groups to lay down their arms and join peace efforts. Local authorities say the integration of the defected...

Tensions Rise as SPLA-IO Officers Defect to Government Forces

 

IO defectors and NSS Spokesperson. 

‎South Sudan’s political and military landscape is experiencing renewed tensions after the defection of 463 SPLA-IO personnel to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). The National Security Service (NSS) announced the move, stating that reintegrating the defectors into the government army is essential for stability and peace.

‎David John Kumuri, NSS spokesman, emphasized the importance of this process, saying,

‎"This reintegration is key to reducing violence and ensuring security across the country."

‎This marks the third mass defection of SPLA-IO members in recent weeks, following clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, last month. The opposition’s spokesperson, Col Lam Paul Gabriel, was unavailable for comment.

‎Political Uncertainty Deepens

‎The defections come amid heightened political tensions, including the recent house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, leader of the SPLM/A-IO. His confinement has sparked international concerns, with the United States and the United Nations calling for his release. Analysts warn that these moves weaken the opposition and further solidify President Salva Kiir’s military control.

‎The fragile 2018 peace agreement between Kiir and Machar remains under strain due to delayed security sector reforms and unresolved political disputes.

‎International Response & Mediation Efforts

‎Amid fears of escalating violence, African Union mediators have arrived in Juba to prevent a return to full-scale conflict. The United Nations has also raised alarms, warning that South Sudan stands on the brink of renewed war.

‎The coming weeks will be critical as international actors push for diplomatic resolutions, while the opposition struggles to maintain its ranks in the face of defections and political pressure.

‎Stay tuned for more updates on South Sudan’s evolving political landscape.

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