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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Civilians Flee Lakama’di as SSPDF Pursues NAS and SPLA-IO Rebel Group in Mundri East ‎

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Civiliand fleeing Lakama'di

Mundri East, Western Equatoria. 

‎Hundreds of civilians have fled Lakama’di area in Mundri East County after the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) launched a major operation to flush out rebel fighters believed to be operating in the region.


‎Also read about: Video Clip: SSPDF Commander Col. Duoth in Nasir Dismisses Death Rumors, Says He Is ‘Alive and Well’

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Local sources told Radio Tamazuj that the deployment triggered panic among residents, who fled into the nearby bush following gunfire and heavy shelling on Sunday.

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‎“The entire Lakama’di area is empty. Only soldiers are there now. Civilians have all escaped because of the fighting,” said a local chief who requested anonymity for security reasons.

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‎The clashes reportedly erupted in Bitti before spreading toward the center of Lakama’di as SSPDF forces advanced against fighters from the National Salvation Front (NAS) and elements of the SPLA-IO.

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‎Government Response

‎Mundri East County Commissioner John Henry Ngalamu confirmed the military operation but dismissed claims that civilians were targeted or harmed during the pursuit.

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‎“The SSPDF are government and professional forces. Their mission is to protect people, not to harm them,” Ngalamu said.

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“We are urging those who fled to return to their homes because calm has been restored.”


‎Also read about: Abyei Official Praises Ngok and Twic Communities for Upholding Peace Amid Military Tensions

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However, witnesses insist sporadic gunfire and shelling caused widespread fear, forcing families to flee with few belongings.

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‎Police and Security Reactions

‎Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Phillip Madut Tong said his office had not yet received an official report from Mundri East but assured that security agencies are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further displacement.

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‎Attempts by reporters to reach SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, as well as representatives from NAS and SPLA-IO, were unsuccessful.

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‎Background

‎The Mundri corridor has witnessed repeated skirmishes in recent months between government forces and NAS rebels, disrupting farming activities and worsening humanitarian conditions. Local leaders have repeatedly appealed for a peaceful resolution and humanitarian access to affected areas.

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‎What’s Next

‎Displaced residents remain in hiding, awaiting assurances of safety before returning home. Observers say the latest clashes highlight ongoing fragility in Western Equatoria despite years of peace efforts.

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