JubaWire

Four Kenyans serving 72 yrs in Jail.  ‎Juba, South Sudan  South Sudan’s Court of Appeal has set aside the convictions of four Kenyan nationals who had been serving 72-year prison sentences, ordering a retrial on corruption charges.  ‎Also read about:  Civilians Flee Lakama’di as SSPDF Pursues NAS and SPLA-IO Rebel Group in Mundri East ‎ ‎ Background: The Case and Original Verdict ‎The four men are, Anthony Mwadime, Boniface Muriuki, Ravi Ghadhda, and Anthony Keya were employees of Click Technologies in Juba.  ‎ They were arrested in May 2015 and charged with defrauding the South Sudan government.  ‎ ‎In June 2016, the court convicted them for multiple offenses, including forging presidential seals, money laundering, and billing for undelivered equipment. Each was handed a 72-year sentence.  ‎More On Nasir:  Video Clip: SSPDF Commander Col. Duoth in Nasir Dismisses Death Rumors, Says He Is ‘Alive and Well’ Click Technologies’ owner, John Ogou who w...

‎ 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’ ‎ 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. ‎ ‎“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. ‎ ‎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. ‎ ‎Government Response ‎Mundri East...

‎By Juba Wire News Desk.  ‎The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) commander in Nasir, Colonel Duoth, has rubbished social media rumors alleging he was killed by SPLA-IO forces. ‎Read about:  Abyei Official Praises Ngok and Twic Communities for Upholding Peace Amid Military Tensions ‎ Speaking from Nasir on Saturday, the visibly angry officer said he is alive and in full command of his troops, urging the public to ignore what he termed as “baseless propaganda” meant to cause panic. ‎ ‎“I am alive and well. Those spreading false reports should come to Nasir and see me in person,” Col. Duoth stated. ‎Read:  Breaking News: New CDF Orders Jonglei’s Red Belt Vigilante Group to Join SSPDF and SPLA-IO to Join Nearest SSPDF Barracks ‎ ‎ He warned individuals behind the rum ‎ ors to refrain from spreading misinformation that could incite fear among civilians or destabilize the fragile peace in Upper Nile State. ‎ ‎The SSPDF commander reaffirmed his commitment to maintainin...

  ‎By Juba Wire| South Sudan News Watch | October 12, 2025 ‎ ‎The Abyei Administrative Area Information Minister, Youhana Akol, has praised the Ngok Dinka and Twic communities for maintaining peace and cooperation despite recent violent clashes between government forces in the region. ‎Also read:  Breaking News: New CDF Orders Jonglei’s Red Belt Vigilante Group to Join SSPDF and SPLA-IO to Join Nearest SSPDF Barracks ‎ ‎ Speaking to the media on Saturday, Minister Akol commended both communities for their resilience and commitment to peace, saying life has largely returned to normal across Abyei, Twic, and Wau despite ongoing tensions between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and SPLA-IO units. ‎ ‎“Despite the events that have occurred so far, the movement is very smooth, and life has returned to normal between the two regions,” said Akol. ‎ ‎Communities Choose Peace Over Conflict ‎Earlier this year, youth leaders from Twic County in Warrap State and the Ngok Din...

  New CDF Gen. Paul Nang Majok ‎The new Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Dr. Paul Nang Majok, has issued a directive ordering members of the Red Belt Movement, a Jonglei-based vigilante group, to officially integrate into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). ‎you can also read about:  ‎Farmer Arrested for Killing and Injuring Cows in Crop Dispute in Rumbek East, Lakes State ‎According to an official statement released by the Office of the SSPDF Spokesperson on October 12, 2025, all Red Belt members are required to report to Malual-Chat Barracks with their personal and support weapons for registration and absorption into the national army. ‎ ‎The directive, signed by Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF Spokesperson, states that those who decline the “golden opportunity and honor to serve” will face forceful disarmament. ‎Also read about:  South Sudan Football Federation (SSFA) Suspends National Team Coach After Controversial Post-Match Remarks ‎ “A committee wil...

  ‎Rumbek East County, Lakes State  Police in Rumbek East County have arrested a farmer accused of maiming several cows that reportedly invaded and destroyed his crops in Awan village over the weekend. ‎According to local authorities, the farmer attacked the animals with a panga after they entered his garden, sparking a dispute between him and the cattle owner. ‎ ‎Commissioner Malual Anyuon confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect is currently in police custody while investigations are ongoing. ‎ ‎“The suspect was arrested for injuring several cows after they trespassed into his farm. We are still verifying the number of cows affected, as both sides have given different figures,” Anyuon said. ‎ ‎Reports indicate that the farmer claims he injured eight cows, while the cattle owner insists the number could be as high as fifteen. ‎ ‎Cattle Owner Demands Justice ‎The owner of the injured animals, Akuckerieth Marial Malual Anyar, acknowledged that the cows strayed into the farmer’s...

‎ South Sudan Men's Football Federation (SSFA) Coach Mr. Nicolas Dupuis.  ‎JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN  ‎ The South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) has suspended national team head coach Nicolas Dupuis for 15 days following his controversial remarks after the Bright Stars’ crushing 5-0 defeat to Senegal in the ongoing World Cup Qualifiers. ‎ ‎In a statement released on Saturday, the federation apologized to fans, partners, and the football community, calling the team’s recent performance and the coach’s comments “unsatisfactory” and “unprofessional.” ‎ ‎“The Head Coach is hereby suspended from his duties for a period of fifteen (15) days for breaching his contractual obligations and violating Article N (3) of the coach professional contract,” read part of the SSFF statement. ‎ Federation Takes Swift Action; ‎The decision followed an extraordinary executive committee meeting held earlier in Juba to address the team’s performance and the coach’s post-match conduct. ‎ ‎The SSFF emphasized...

‎ ‎FANGAK, SOUTH SUDAN  ‎ Catastrophic flooding has engulfed large parts of Fangak County in Jonglei State, displacing thousands of residents and cutting off essential services as humanitarian agencies rush to respond. ‎ ‎Heavy rains and a sudden dyke breach near Old Fangak at the end of August triggered widespread inundation, forcing families to flee their submerged homes.  ‎ The breach first reported on August 30, 2025 caused water from the Nile and surrounding swamps to pour into residential areas, destroying property, farmland, and vital infrastructure. ‎ ‎Massive Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis ‎According to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), over 1,000 residents were evacuated from Old Fangak after the dyke collapse. Across Jonglei State, an estimated 47,000 people have been displaced as the floodwaters continue to rise. ‎ ‎Local officials and aid groups report that entire villages are now underwater. Families have taken refuge on rooftops, dykes, or makeshift rafts, w...

  ‎Juba, South Sudan  ‎ The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has taken a major step toward enhancing access to legal knowledge by receiving 40,000 printed copies of two foundational transitional justice laws. The handover was supported by the European Union.  ‎ ‎Key Laws and Purpose ‎The two laws now in print are: ‎Compensation and Reparation Authority Act, 2024 ‎Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing Act, 2024  ‎ ‎These statutes underpin South Sudan’s process of healing and accountability after years of conflict.  ‎ The Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing (CTRH) is tasked with addressing root causes of conflict, promoting national dialogue, and guiding a path toward reconciliation.  ‎ The Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) will focus on delivering reparative support to victims.  ‎ ‎The Handover & Significance ‎EU Ambassador to South Sudan, Pelle Enarsson, officially handed over the printed volumes to...

‎ South Sudan National Football Team Head Coach Mr. Nicolas Dupuis.  ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 11, 2025. ‎ ‎South Sudan national football team head coach Nicolas Dupuis has apologized to fans following the Bright Stars’ heavy 5-0 loss to Senegal in Friday’s international match at Juba National Stadium. ‎ ‎Speaking at the post-match press conference, the French tactician admitted the result was painful and disappointing but emphasized that the team remains focused on improvement. ‎ ‎“I want to correct some clumsy remarks I made in the heat of the moment after the match,” Dupuis said. “I was deeply affected by our many individual mistakes, though I was happy with how we played in the first half.” ‎ ‎Dupuis took full responsibility for the defeat and expressed appreciation to the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFA) for its continued support.  ‎ ‎He praised the federation’s efforts to professionalize the national team’s environment, citing improved facilities and accommodatio...

Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro.  ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 11, 2025 ‎ ‎Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro has called on commercial banks operating in South Sudan to end what he described as unfair and discriminatory practices of denying loans to South Sudanese entrepreneurs while extending credit facilities to foreigners. ‎ ‎Speaking during the launch of the country’s first Interbank Payment and Settlement System in Juba, Dr. Lomuro expressed concern that local business owners and young professionals continue to face barriers when seeking financial support from banks. ‎ ‎“Our own people cannot access loans to build homes or start businesses, yet foreigners are being given credit with ease,” Dr. Lomuro said. “This must stop if we are to build a sustainable economy for South Sudan.” ‎ ‎The senior minister said the reluctance of banks to finance South Sudanese-owned enterprises has become a major obstacle to economic growth and job creation.  ‎ He ...

  Bank of South Sudan Headquarters, Juba.  ‎JUBA, October 10, 2025  ‎ The Bank of South Sudan has officially launched the country’s first-ever Interbank Payment and Settlement System (IPSS), a groundbreaking platform that enables banks to process and settle payments instantly 24 hours a day, seven days a week. ‎ ‎The new system, commissioned on Thursday in Juba, marks a major milestone in the country’s financial modernization efforts.  ‎ It allows real-time transfer of funds and securities between banks, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and security across the banking sector. ‎ ‎Speaking during the launch, Central Bank officials said the innovation will significantly reduce transaction delays and operational risks caused by manual clearing processes.  ‎ The system is also expected to strengthen the bank’s ability to manage liquidity and implement effective monetary policies. ‎ ‎“This system will enable real-time payments and settlements at any time of the day...

‎ ‎Nairobi, Kenya  ‎ Kenya’s President William Ruto has officially taken over as the new Chairperson of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), succeeding Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye.  ‎ The transition occurred during the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit held in Nairobi on Thursday.  ‎ ‎Key Highlights & Strategic Priorities ‎1. Leadership Transition & Summit Attendance ‎ ‎President Ruto’s elevation comes at a critical time for regional integration efforts. ‎ ‎The summit drew heads of state, government envoys, and representatives from the African Union and development partners.  ‎ ‎South Sudan, while not a full member of COMESA, participates through the Regional Customs Transit Guarantee (RCTG) scheme.  ‎ ‎2. Focus on Economic & Social Integration ‎In his inaugural address, Ruto emphasized narrowing economic and social divides across member states: ‎ ‎“At the heart of our mission are our people and our sha...

  SSPDF  ‎Date: October 10, 2025 ‎Location: Cueibet County, Lakes State, South Sudan ‎ ‎Cueibet, Lakes State Two civilians were fatally shot by members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Cueibet County late Thursday night, a government official confirmed Friday.  ‎ The killings triggered a retaliatory armed attack by local youth, resulting in the death of one soldier.  ‎ ‎Sequence of Events ‎According to William Koji Kerjok, the acting State Minister of Information, the incident unfolded after a military officer reported being “surrounded” and requested assistance.  ‎ When responding SSPDF units arrived, they encountered a gathering of more than 40 armed youth, and an exchange of gunfire ensued. Kerjok said: ‎“In the process, two of these armed youth were killed.” ‎“When the soldiers returned to their base, the armed youth attacked in retaliation, killing one soldier.”  ‎ ‎The state government says the situation is now “contained” and tha...

Former Eastern Equatoria State Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affair, Mr. Joseph Opio Wilson Okullo ‎Date: October 10, 2025 ‎Location: Torit, Eastern Equatoria, South Sudan ‎ ‎The government of Eastern Equatoria state has formally announced legal proceedings against former Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Joseph Opio Wilson Okullo, who is accused of continuing to assert ministerial authority despite having been impeached nearly three years ago.  ‎ ‎Impeachment and Ongoing Dispute ‎In December 2022, the state’s transitional legislative assembly removed Okullo from his position over allegations that he had unauthorizedly sold a ministry vehicle.  He was succeeded by Peter Gumbo, who like Okullo is affiliated with the Other Political Party (OPP).  ‎ ‎Yet, according to Elia John Ahaji, the current state Minister of Information, Okullo has persistently represented himself to foreign missions, private institutions, and the media as though he still holds minist...

Somalia President Hon. Sheikh Mohamud. ‎Mogadishu, October 8, 2025   ‎ In a landmark decision, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced that Swahili will be formally introduced into Somalia’s education curriculum, strengthening the country’s integration into the the East African Community (EAC).  ‎ ‎Somalia, which joined the EAC in early 2024, will now teach Swahili alongside its existing official languages Somali, Arabic, and English.   The move reflects Mogadishu’s strategic vision to align more closely with its regional neighbors and strengthen cultural and economic ties.  ‎ “Adopting Swahili is important for our integration into the region,” President Mohamud declared at the EAC summit in Mogadishu.  ‎Why This Matters ‎Regional unity & identity: Swahili is already an official language of the EAC, used across East Africa to facilitate communication, trade, and cultural exchange.  ‎ ‎Practical benefits: Many Somalis in Kenya and Tanzani...

SSFA President Mr. Francis Amin and (SPESP) Adult Salva.  JUBA, October 9, 2025  The President of the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFA), Francis Amin, today led his executive team in a courtesy visit to Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs, Adut Salva, to express appreciation for her steadfast support toward the national football team, the Bright Stars. During the meeting, Amin presented Adut Salva with a South Sudan national team jersey bearing her name a symbolic gesture recognizing her continuous encouragement and commitment to the growth of sports in the country. “We deeply appreciate Madam Adut’s unwavering support to our national team and her inspiring role in promoting sports development across South Sudan,” said Amin after the meeting. Adut, who has been a strong advocate for youth empowerment through sports, expressed her gratitude to the federation and reaffirmed her commitment to rally behind the Bright Stars as they prepare for their crucial World Cup...

‎ President Kiir (South Sudan) and Deputy President Paul Mashatile (SA).  ‎ JUBA, October 9, 2025  ‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday held high-level discussions with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Juba, focusing on accelerating the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement. ‎ ‎Mashatile, who also serves as South Africa’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, engaged with government officials, political leaders, and peace stakeholders during his visit, seeking ways to fast-track the peace process and consolidate stability in the country. ‎ ‎Speaking after the meeting, South Sudan’s Ambassador to South Africa, Amb. Simon Duku, said the visit aims to deepen political cooperation and bolster support for South Sudan’s peace roadmap. ‎ ‎“This engagement is crucial for ensuring a peaceful and democratic transition,” Duku noted, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration between Juba and Pretoria. ‎ ‎South Africa’s Ambassador to South Sudan,...

JUBA, October 9, 2025  President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed the newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Dr. Paul Nang Majok, to spearhead comprehensive reforms within the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and ensure professionalism across all ranks. Speaking during the official swearing-in ceremony held in Juba on Thursday, President Kiir urged Dr. Majok to uphold military discipline and steer clear of political interference, warning that the army must remain neutral and focused on safeguarding national sovereignty. “The military must stay away from politics and serve the people of South Sudan with integrity and neutrality,” Kiir stated. “I expect the new Chief of Defence Forces to prioritise the welfare of soldiers and lead by example.” President Kiir pledged full government support to efforts aimed at modernising the national army and improving the living conditions of the organized forces. Dr. Paul Nang Majok replaces Gen. Dau Aturjong, who was relieved of...

‎ ‎Juba, South Sudan - October 9, 2025: ‎ The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) has confirmed the release of its member, Alfred Gatmai Koang, who was arrested by the National Security Service (NSS) on Wednesday during the ongoing trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused at Freedom Hall in Juba. ‎Arrest and Release Details ‎In a statement issued by SPLM-IO Youth League spokesperson Gattiek Wichar, Alfred Gatmai who serves as the Information Secretary of the SPLM-IO Caucus of Mayom County in Juba was released on Thursday afternoon, roughly a day after his detention. ‎ ‎Wichar said Gatmai was arrested inside Freedom Hall while attending the high-profile trial of Dr. Machar, which has drawn significant political and public attention nationwide. ‎ ‎“The national security didn’t provide any details surrounding his unlawful arrest,” the SPLM-IO statement reads. “Security officials insisted that Cde. Alfred Gatmai defied the search order while...

‎ ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 9, 2025   ‎ The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has pledged to intensify security along the Juba-Bor highway, especially around Mogiri, following a fatal ambush that claimed at least one life.  ‎ ‎Ambush Details & Impact ‎On Tuesday morning, two public passenger vehicles were attacked about 40 km from Juba, near the Mogiri junction.  ‎ One vehicle was “sprayed with bullets,” according to SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang.   He confirmed that one passenger died in the attack, and another was wounded suffering a gunshot to the head or neck. The perpetrators remain unknown.  ‎ ‎The Mogiri stretch has become a notorious “black spot” for such attacks, with multiple ambushes already recorded in the area.  ‎ ‎SSPDF Response & Measures ‎Major General Lul emphasized that security will be beefed up along the highway, particularly in vulnerable sections, to deter further violence and protect ci...

‎ ‎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...