JubaWire

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin from his position as the Minister of Transport and appointed Hon. Rizik Zachariah Hassan as his replacement in a presidential decree read on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Tuesday evening. ‎ ‎The decree did not specify reasons for Dr. Akol’s removal, but political analysts say the change comes amid mounting concerns over inefficiency and internal wrangles within the Ministry of Transport, particularly over the management of infrastructure projects and transport safety reforms. ‎ ‎Rizik Zachariah, who previously served as the Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, is a seasoned politician and close ally of President Kiir.  ‎ His appointment is seen as part of a wider government reshuffle aimed at improving service delivery and ensuring loyalty within key ministries as South Sudan heads toward the anticipated national elections. ‎ ‎Dr. Lam Akol, a veteran opposition figure and leader...

President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed General Dau Aturjong Nyuol from his position as the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and re-appointed General Paul Nang Majok to the powerful military post. The decree, announced on state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Tuesday night, did not specify the reason for the abrupt change in command.  However, sources within the military say the move could be part of broader efforts by the President to reassert control over the army amid growing internal and regional tensions. Gen. Paul Nang Majok previously held the same position before being replaced by Gen. Dau Aturjong earlier this year.  His return to the top military office signals renewed trust from the President and possibly a shift in the SSPDF’s leadership approach as the country faces multiple security and political challenges. The reshuffle comes at a critical time when the army is engaged in several operation...

‎JUBA, October 8, 2025 ‎ South Sudan’s security forces on Wednesday barred independent journalists from covering the ongoing trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, sparking outrage among media groups and human rights defenders who say the move is a serious setback for judicial transparency and press freedom in the country. ‎ ‎Despite earlier assurances that the Special Court proceedings would remain open to the public, only state-run media particularly the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC)  were allowed access to Freedom Hall, where the trial is being held under tight security.  ‎ Independent reporters from several local and international outlets were turned away without explanation. ‎ ‎ ‎Media Block Sparks Outcry ‎The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) and the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) condemned the move, calling it a deliberate attempt to suppress information and control public perception. ‎ ‎“The c...

‎JUBA – South Sudan  ‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has reportedly directed the immediate withdrawal of Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) troops from South Sudan, but Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has insisted his soldiers will not leave until outstanding payments owed by the government of South Sudan are settled in full. ‎ ‎According to reliable sources within the security establishment, the Ugandan forces estimated at over 5,000 soldiers were initially deployed in South Sudan under a private arrangement facilitated by businessman and Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, reportedly to support government operations in key conflict zones. ‎However, the partnership has now hit a financial deadlock as huge arrears continue to accumulate. Each UPDF soldier is said to be entitled to $200 per day, meaning the total cost runs into millions of dollars every month. ‎ ‎“General Muhoozi has made it clear that Uganda will not withdra...

‎Juba, October 8, 2025  ‎ The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has announced the successful recapture of Katiba area in Mundri East County, Western Equatoria State, following intense fighting with a coalition of National Salvation Front (NAS) and SPLM-IO forces. ‎ ‎According to the SSPDF spokesperson, government troops launched a strategic counter-offensive early this week to reclaim the area, which had reportedly fallen under opposition control last month. ‎ ‎“Our forces have regained full control of Katiba and restored government authority in the area after pushing out joint NAS and SPLM-IO elements,” the army statement said. ‎ ‎The military described the operation as “decisive and professional,” emphasizing that it was aimed at protecting civilians and restoring peace along the Yambio–Mundri corridor, a vital trade and transport route connecting Western Equatoria to the central region. ‎ Clashes and Displacement ‎Local sources confirmed heavy gunfire during the confro...

‎ Justice Minister Hon. Joseph Geng Akech  October 8, 2025 | Juba, South Sudan ‎ ‎South Sudan’s fragile peace is once again under strain as the government’s insistence on proceeding with the trial of Dr. Riek Machar the suspended First Vice President and key opposition leader continues to ignite political and diplomatic controversy. ‎ ‎The latest warning from Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech, cautioning against public commentary on the trial, underscores a widening rift between the rule of law narrative advanced by the government and the political dialogue demanded by peace partners. ‎ ‎Balancing Justice and Peace ‎The Justice Minister’s stern statement that “matters in court are not discussed outside” is grounded in legal procedure.  ‎ Yet, in the current political climate, it has broader implications signaling the administration’s determination to keep the Machar trial insulated from political influence, even as its consequences spill into the peace process. ‎ ‎To the gove...

‎Warrap State, South Sudan, 8 October 2025  ‎ At least 15 people have died and five others wounded in renewed fighting on the border of Athony, a government-designated buffer zone, according to local officials.  ‎ ‎Clash Details & Casualties ‎Twic County Commissioner Mabior Marup confirmed that the confrontation began Monday evening and continued into Tuesday morning.  ‎ ‎Initially, eight soldiers from both sides reportedly lost their lives.  ‎ ‎By the following day, the conflict flared again, resulting in seven additional deaths, bringing the total to 15.  ‎ ‎Among the fatalities: eight SSPDF soldiers, six SPLA-IO fighters, and one civilian caught in crossfire.  ‎ ‎Five SSPDF soldiers were injured and are receiving treatment.  ‎ ‎Trigger & Aftermath ‎Marup attributed the flare-up partly to heightened tensions around the ongoing high-profile trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and eight co-accused.   ‎ He added tha...

‎ ‎Juba, October 7, 2025  ‎ A regional ceasefire monitor says that both the government of South Sudan and opposition forces are recruiting fighters and abducting children, sparking fresh fears that the country may slip back into full-scale civil war.  ‎ ‎Key Developments ‎The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) overseen by IGAD says South Sudan’s military in June initiated a recruitment drive for 4,000 new forces, and opened a new training center in August.  ‎ ‎Reports also indicate that all sides in the conflict have abducted or mobilized children, and there have been instances of sexual violence by combatants.  ‎ ‎Civilians have borne the brunt: from January to September 2025, civilian casualties rose by 59% compared with the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, about 321,000 people have been displaced by ongoing conflict.  ‎ ‎The armed conflict between President Salva Kiir’s forces and the opposition loyal to Riek Machar has escalated...

‎Juba, October 7, 2025  ‎ South Sudan is preparing to restart its suspended cabinet meetings next week, bringing an end to an eight-month suspension that has stalled key governmental functions.  ‎ Reason for the Halt and the Explanation ‎According to Martin Elia Lomuro, the Cabinet Affairs Minister, the pause was due to renovations in the main cabinet chamber as the government transitioned toward an “electronic cabinet” model.  ‎ He denied that the stoppage was linked to political tensions surrounding the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar.  ‎ ‎Lomuro said that even if the main hall is not yet ready, ministers will convene in a temporary venue within government premises to resume business.  ‎ ‎Consequences of the Delay ‎The Council of Ministers, South Sudan’s top executive body, last met in March 2025, and its regular Friday sessions traditionally chaired by President Salva Kiir or Machar have been on hold since.  ‎ ‎One major fallout: the 2025/2026...

‎ ‎Date: October 7, 2025 ‎Location: Between Bilyaang and Mogiri, Juba County, Central Equatoria, South Sudan ‎ ‎Gunmen ambushed a public passenger vehicle traveling from Bor (in Jonglei State) toward the capital Juba on Tuesday morning along the Juba-Bor highway, injuring two passengers and intensifying pressure to relocate a local cattle market seen as a security risk.  ‎ ‎What Happened ‎The attack occurred between Bilyaang and Mogiri in Central Equatoria.  ‎ ‎The assailants targeted a vehicle carrying over 10 passengers. They looted money and luggage from passengers, forcing many to flee into nearby forested areas.  ‎ ‎Two victims sustained head and shoulder injuries; their condition is reported to be stable. They were evacuated to Juba for medical treatment.  ‎ ‎The remaining passengers, who hid during the assault, were later located and found unharmed.  ‎ ‎Reigniting Long-Standing Demands ‎This assault has reignited demands by the Drivers’ Union in Jonglei S...

  ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Beny Gideon Mabor as the new Minister of East African Community Affairs, replacing veteran diplomat Deng Alor Kuol. ‎ ‎The appointment was announced through a Republican Decree broadcast on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening. The decree did not specify the reasons for the replacement. ‎ ‎Before his elevation to the ministerial post, Beny Gideon Mabor served as the Undersecretary in the same ministry, where he played a key role in advancing South Sudan’s regional integration efforts and strengthening cooperation with East African Community (EAC) member states. ‎ ‎Mabor’s promotion marks a significant generational shift in the ministry’s leadership and is seen as recognition of his long-standing service and institutional experience within the regional bloc. ‎ ‎As Minister, Mabor will be tasked with steering South Sudan’s participation in the EAC integration agenda, including economic harmonization, free movemen...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol Ranley, the former Governor of Upper Nile State, as the new Deputy Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs. ‎ ‎The presidential decree was broadcast on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening, ending nearly two years of vacancy in the position. ‎ ‎The office of the Deputy Minister of Defence has remained unfilled since 2023, when President Kiir transferred the Defence Ministry portfolio from the SPLM-IO to the SPLM, following the dismissal of then-Minister Angelina Teny a move that sparked political controversy and strained relations between the peace partners. ‎ ‎Although the Revitalized Peace Agreement stipulates that the Deputy Minister’s post should be occupied by an SPLM-IO nominee, the opposition group led by Dr. Riek Machar boycotted the appointment, accusing President Kiir of violating the power-sharing arrangement by unilaterally reshuffling the ministry. ‎ ‎Lt. Gen. Koang’s appoin...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed General Philip Nyon from his position as Commander of the Presidential Guards Unit, commonly known as the Tiger Division, and appointed Major General Valentino Baak Makuei as his successor. ‎ ‎The changes were announced through a Republican Decree read on state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening.  ‎ ‎The decree did not specify the reasons behind the shake-up within the elite unit responsible for protecting the President and key state institutions. ‎ ‎Maj. Gen. Valentino Baak Makuei’s appointment marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of South Sudan’s most powerful security organs.  ‎ The Tiger Division plays a central role in ensuring the safety of the presidency and maintaining stability within the capital, Juba. ‎ ‎Gen. Philip Nyon, who had served as the unit’s commander for several years, was a close ally within the military establishment.  ‎ His removal comes amid ongoing effor...

Dr. Riek Machar  ‎JUBA, South Sudan  ‎ The Special Court trying First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused on charges related to the Nasir violence has ruled that it has full jurisdiction to hear the case dismissing defense arguments that the matter falls under the yet-to-be-established Hybrid Court for South Sudan. ‎ ‎Delivering the ruling on Monday, Presiding Judge Dr. James Alala Deng said the court was legally constituted under the Judiciary Act and fully competent to proceed with the trial. ‎ ‎“There is no overlapping of jurisdiction between this Special Court and the Hybrid Court,” the judge stated, adding that since the Hybrid Court is not yet operational, “this court shall proceed to handle the matter.” ‎ ‎The ruling followed weeks of heated legal debate between the defense and the prosecution over whether the court had the authority to try South Sudan’s sitting First Vice President. ‎ ‎Prosecution: “The White Army Did Not Act Independently” ‎During toda...

Nasir County MP. Hon. Gatwech Lam Puoch ‎JUBA, South Sudan  ‎ The Special Court trying First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused has granted Nasir County Member of Parliament Gatwech Lam Puoch permission to briefly visit his family following the death of his brother-in-law. ‎ ‎Gatwech, who is the third accused in the high-profile trial, requested temporary leave to attend to family matters and offer condolences after the passing of his relative. ‎ Court Allows Humanitarian Request ‎During Monday’s session, the defense team formally appealed for a compassionate leave on Gatwech’s behalf, citing the family tragedy.  ‎ The court approved the request, allowing the MP to travel under restricted conditions before resuming trial proceedings. ‎ ‎A court official confirmed that the decision was purely humanitarian, emphasizing that it would not interfere with the ongoing case schedule. ‎ ‎“The court has considered the circumstances surrounding the request and has decide...

  ‎JUBA, South Sudan   ‎ Former Warrap State Governor Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu has sounded the alarm over what he calls a dangerous rise in “Gen-Z armed vigilante groups” across South Sudan blaming government and societal neglect of the country’s youth for creating fertile ground for insecurity. ‎ ‎Speaking during a church event in Juba, Gen. Aleu said the lack of attention to the needs, aspirations, and frustrations of young people is pushing a new generation into self-styled vigilante groups, some of which are already taking up arms and acting outside the law. ‎ “Our young people have been ignored for too long. We talk about peace and development, but the youth the majority of this nation are left behind,” Gen. Aleu stated. ‎ ‎Rise of “Gen-Z” Vigilante Movements ‎According to Gen. Aleu, South Sudan is witnessing the emergence of informal armed youth groups such as The Crew, The Red Belt, These Cattle Restless, and others.  ‎ These groups, mostly composed of young men ...

‎Rumbek, Lakes State - October 5, 2025 Bank of South Sudan Opens New Currency Centre in Rumbek ‎The Bank of South Sudan completes a new modern currency centre in Rumbek to boost regional banking, cash security, and economic development. Centre, Dr. James Alic Garang, Lakes State, South Sudan economy, financial decentralization, national currency, banking development, Rumbek news ‎The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has officially completed the construction of a new currency centre in Rumbek, marking a major step toward decentralizing financial operations and improving cash management across the country. ‎ ‎According to officials, the newly established centre is part of the bank’s broader strategy to extend its presence beyond Juba and strengthen the distribution and security of national currency in the states. ‎ ‎Enhancing Financial Accessibility in the Regions ‎The Rumbek Currency Centre will serve as a regional financial hub for Lakes and neighboring states, enabling more efficient handli...

‎ ‎ Juba, South Sudan October 5, 2025  ‎South Sudan news, Upper Nile State, Jacob Dollar Ruot, President Salva Kiir, SPLM leadership, South Sudan governors, peace and stability, community leaders, Nuer Chollo Dinka Maban Koma unity, Juba politics, South Sudan elections 2025 “New Dawn for Upper Nile: Kiir’s Appointment of Jacob Dollar Ruot Wins Widespread Support” Senior members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and prominent community leaders from Upper Nile State have declared full support for President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s appointment of Jacob Dollar Ruot as the new Governor of Upper Nile State. ‎ ‎The endorsement marks a significant show of unity within both the ruling party and the state’s diverse communities, following the recent dismissal of former Governor James Koang Chuol. ‎ ‎SPLM Bureau Members Unite Behind the President ‎According to senior party sources, all three SPLM Political Bureau members hailing from Upper Nile Simon Kun Puoch, Stephen Dhieu Dau, a...

‎ ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 5, 2025  ‎ ‎In a landmark three-day conference held over the weekend in Juba, the Nuer community initiated a comprehensive effort to harmonize its customary laws across regions, addressing long-standing inconsistencies in practices around marriage, dowry, and compensation.  ‎ ‎Key Outcomes & Resolutions ‎The conference convened elders, chiefs, legal scholars, youth representatives, and members of the diaspora to review and revise existing customary practices.  ‎Nuer leaders committed to a unified legal framework that would apply consistently across both eastern and western sections of the community.  ‎A major point of contention was the escalating cost of dowries. Traditionally set between 25 and 35 cows, dowry expectations in some areas have surged to 120–200 cows, or a cash equivalent, placing immense pressure on young grooms.  ‎To rein in the trend, the conference proposed a standard rate of $200 per cow and urged communities...

‎Juba, South Sudan  ‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit has issued a Republican decree relieving Governor James Koang Chuol Ranley of his duties as the Governor of Upper Nile State. ‎ ‎In the same decree announced Friday evening on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), the President appointed Jacob Dollar Ruot Kon as the new Governor of Upper Nile. ‎ ‎The reasons behind Governor Koang’s dismissal were not immediately stated, but political observers say the move comes at a critical time as the country prepares for its first elections since independence, amid ongoing tensions in parts of Upper Nile. ‎ ‎Who is Jacob Dollar Ruot? ‎Jacob Dollar Ruot is a senior member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and has previously served in various government positions. His appointment is seen as part of Kiir’s ongoing political reshuffle aimed at consolidating leadership in key states ahead of the electoral roadmap. ‎ ‎Upper Nile: A State Under Pressure ‎Upper Nile State has bee...

‎Juba, South Sudan  ‎ The defense team representing First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar on Friday strongly contested the legality of the arrest warrant issued against him, calling it “profoundly shocking” and unconstitutional. ‎ ‎Lead defense lawyer Dr. Geri Raimondo told the Special Court that the warrant undermines the rule of law by granting presidential powers that, according to the constitution, do not exist. ‎ ‎“My Lord, the document before me is profoundly shocking. The arrest warrant essentially terms the President of this country as both a police officer and a prosecutor a power that is supposed to belong to the Honorable Minister of Justice,” Raimondo argued. ‎He further stressed that the warrant was issued by an “unauthorized jurisdiction,” insisting that the only body empowered to authorize the arrest of the First Vice President is the National Assembly, as stipulated under Article 103, Clause 2 of South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution. ‎ ‎According to Raimondo, pros...

‎ ‎Juba, October 3, 2025  ‎ The sixth day of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar’s trial in Juba’s Special Court unfolded with heated legal battles, sharp objections, and mounting political implications.  ‎ At stake is not just Machar’s fate in connection with the Nasir incident, but also the future of constitutional law, immunity, and the peace process in South Sudan. ‎ ‎The session at Freedom Hall brought into focus four key documents presented by the prosecution and the defense’s fierce resistance to their admissibility.  ‎ What transpired revealed not only a clash of legal arguments but also a test of political will between the SPLM-IO leader and state institutions. ‎ ‎Prosecution Pushes Forward ‎On Friday, state prosecutors introduced critical documents into evidence: ‎1. An authorization letter issued by the National Security Service (NSS), signed by Brigadier General Jalfan Obage Nyawela. ‎2. A ministerial decision by the Ministry of Justice establishing...

‎Juba, October 3, 2025  ‎ Suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny has strongly rejected the Special Court’s investigation into his role in the Nasir incident, arguing that the proceedings violate the Constitution and his immunity as a senior government official. ‎ ‎The dramatic development unfolded on Friday during the sixth session of the Special Court in Juba, where prosecutors had presented four key documents as evidence: ‎ ‎1. An executive arrest sanction from the Presidency. ‎2. A National Security authorization for the arrest. ‎3. A ministerial order from the Justice Ministry. ‎4. A directive lifting parliamentary immunity for MP Gatwech, one of Machar’s co-accused. ‎ ‎Machar Challenges Court’s Authority ‎Taking the stand, Machar flatly refused to recognize the legitimacy of the investigation committee formed by the Ministry of Justice. ‎ ‎“I do not acknowledge this committee. I will not cooperate with an unlawful process,” Machar told the court, insisting that hi...

‎ ‎Juba, October 2, 2025  ‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has received a detailed update on the humanitarian crisis and infrastructure challenges facing communities in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA).  ‎ ‎The briefing was delivered on Thursday by Gola Boyoi Gola, the Chief Administrator of GPAA, during a high-level meeting at the State House, Juba. ‎ ‎Humanitarian Emergency in Greater Pibor ‎According to Gola Boyoi, thousands of families in Greater Pibor have been displaced by widespread flooding, leaving communities in desperate need of emergency relief.  ‎ ‎Entire villages have been submerged, homes destroyed, and farmlands rendered unproductive, worsening the already fragile humanitarian situation in the semi-autonomous region. ‎ ‎The Chief Administrator underscored the urgency of humanitarian intervention, pointing out that affected families require food, shelter, medical support, and protection services.  ‎ ‎He emphasized that the humanitarian emer...