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...

Attack on Juba-Bor Highway Leaves Two Wounded, Triggers Calls for Security Reforms



‎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 State to relocate the Mogiri cattle auction market, which union leadership alleges attracts criminal elements preying on highway travelers. 

‎“The market keeps criminals who attack the travelers each time they come off their cattle,” said Deng Jool, chairman of the Drivers’ Union. 

‎Union leaders urge both the Central Equatoria State government and national authorities to select a safer location for the market, preferably one where arms are prohibited. 

‎Official Response & Gaps

‎The national police spokesperson, Gen. James Monday Enoka, said he was not yet aware of the incident and was awaiting an official report. 

‎Authorities in Central Equatoria have not responded publicly at the time of reporting. 

‎State officials have previously stated that the Mogiri site was never formally designated for livestock trading, contributing to weak security oversight in the area. 

‎Broader Implications & Reactions

‎Civil society groups condemned the ambush, linking it to South Sudan’s fragile peace environment under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). 

‎Ter Manyang Gatwech, executive director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, remarked:

‎“Such incidents are not acceptable… the main goal of R-ARCSS is to restore peace and security across the country.” 

‎What to Watch

  • ‎Will the authorities act on the union’s demands to relocate the Mogiri market?
  • ‎Can enhanced security measures be deployed along the Juba-Bor highway to protect traveling civilians?
  • ‎Will this attack influence momentum (or setbacks) in implementing South Sudan’s peace agreement?

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