“We Are Back”: SSPDF Recaptures Ulang Amid Fractures in the White Army ‎

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‎After weeks of tension and uncertainty, the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have reentered Ulang town, regaining control from the White Army  a civilian militia that had recently seized power and chased out government authorities.

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‎Maj. Gen. Michael Majok, the army commander overseeing Division 2 in Malakal, confirmed the news Thursday. “We are back in Ulang, thanks to the unity of our forces, the state government, and the support of civilians on the ground,” he said.

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‎Last month, the White Army mainly composed of armed Nuer youth  took over Ulang County, replacing the county commissioner and pushing back against government troop movements in nearby Nasir. 

The move sparked fears of renewed regional conflict and cross-border instability with Ethiopia.

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‎But this week’s retaking of Ulang came with surprisingly little resistance. According to Upper Nile Governor Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol, retreating White Army fighters  possibly alongside SPLA-IO elements looted health centers and markets before fleeing. 

“Despite that, the situation is under control. We urge our people to come back home,” he added, noting that efforts with Ethiopian authorities had also helped calm tensions near the border town of Jekow.

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‎Still, the calm is fragile.

‎Inside the White Army, cracks are beginning to show. Some of its fighters reportedly laid down their weapons or refused to engage the army. A commander from Nasir, Kang Makana, admitted as much. “Some refused to fight,” he said bluntly. “But reinforcements are coming.”

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‎That promise of renewed confrontation hangs over Ulang like a storm cloud.

‎For now, the flags have changed, the soldiers have returned, and the streets are quiet  but many in the town know that quiet in Upper Nile often doesn’t last. 

Peace in this region has always come in brief pauses, not permanent solutions.

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‎Until the root causes of youth militarization, local power struggles, and trust deficits are addressed, Ulang’s fragile peace may once again give way to violence. 

But today, for the residents returning to their homes and picking up the pieces, hope has a pulse.