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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SSPDF (Army) Recaptures Katiba in Mundri East from Joint NAS and SPLM-IO Forces ‎

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‎Juba, October 8, 2025 

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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.

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‎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.

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‎“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.

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‎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.

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Clashes and Displacement

‎Local sources confirmed heavy gunfire during the confrontation, forcing hundreds of residents to flee into nearby forests. 

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Humanitarian agencies have expressed concern over the rising displacement in Mundri East, where intermittent clashes between government and opposition forces have disrupted farming and aid delivery.

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‎While the SSPDF reported no major casualties on its side, local reports indicate that both sides sustained losses. Independent verification of casualty figures remains difficult due to limited access to the area.

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Rebel Allegations and Response

‎Opposition officials from SPLM-IO and NAS have not yet issued official statements, though earlier communiqués accused government forces of violating the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement through “offensive operations” in Western Equatoria.

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‎The government, however, insists that the action was defensive, aimed at neutralizing armed groups allegedly targeting civilians and disrupting stability ahead of the 2026 national elections.

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‎Background

‎Katiba and its surrounding areas have been hotspots of insecurity since 2023, when NAS forces led by Gen. 

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Thomas Cirillo increased operations in Western Equatoria, accusing Juba of marginalization and failure to implement federal governance.

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‎Tensions further escalated when splinter factions of the SPLM-IO joined NAS fighters in joint attacks on army positions, prompting government counter-operations.

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‎Situation Remains Tense

‎Despite the SSPDF’s declaration of victory, the situation in Mundri East remains volatile. Residents have urged both parties to respect the peace deal and allow humanitarian access to displaced families.

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‎Regional observers warn that renewed fighting between signatory and non-signatory groups could undermine South Sudan’s fragile peace process and derail preparations for the first post-war elections slated for December 2026.

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‎Conclusion

‎The recapture of Katiba marks a significant military gain for the SSPDF, but analysts say long-term peace will depend on renewed dialogue with armed groups operating outside the peace framework.

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As calm slowly returns to Mundri East, the humanitarian situation and prospects for reconciliation remain uncertain.

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