South Sudan Army Achieves Strategic Victory in Nasir
South Sudan’s military recaptured the town of Nasir from the White Army militia, led by Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Paul Nang Majok. The operation reflects ongoing tensions in post-peace agreement South Sudan, with significant humanitarian repercussions. Diplomatic efforts are underway to restore stability amid calls for calm and cooperation from international actors.
On Monday, South Sudan’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Paul Nang Majok, visited the town of Nasir following a significant military operation that resulted in the recapture of the area from the White Army militia. This visit served as a morale booster for troops after one of the most pivotal battles since the 2018 peace agreement. Accompanying General Majok were General Kong Thou, the field commander of the offensive, and General Johnson Olony, the assistant chief of defense forces for disarmament.
During his address, General Majok commended the soldiers for their success in regaining control of Nasir, recognizing the sacrifices made, including the loss of General David Majur Dak and other forces. He remarked, “The President of the Republic and the Commander-in-Chief has sent his greetings… I am with you in Nasir and I have been monitoring your movement since you started to advance.”
Acknowledging the toll of conflict, Majok declared the White Army had been neutralized and committed to pursuing any remaining fighters. He urged local citizens to return weapons previously seized from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and called for continued cooperation under the peace agreement’s security terms.
The backdrop to this conflict involved attacks on March 4, when White Army militia forces overran a SSPDF base, resulting in numerous fatalities, including General Dak. The White Army is a loosely affiliated militia largely composed of ethnic Nuer young men that operates outside the official military framework, causing national and regional concerns.
President Salva Kiir’s government has accused First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar’s SPLA-IO forces of collaborating with the militia. However, Machar’s allies have denied these allegations. The violent incidents in Nasir prompted Machar’s controversial house arrest, which drew widespread criticism for violating the peace agreement.
The humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing clashes has been severe, with nearly 200 fatalities and over 125,000 people displaced since March across several regions. Human Rights Watch has alleged that the SSPDF utilized improperly incendiary devices in civilian-populated areas, leading to further casualties.
In light of the escalating violence, regional and international stakeholders have intensified diplomatic initiatives. IGAD envoy Raila Odinga recently engaged in crisis talks with President Kiir, showing optimism for a peaceful conclusion. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni also expressed support and readiness to enhance bilateral relations, with calls for calm coming from both the African Union and UNMISS.
The Revitalized Peace Agreement established in 2018 aimed to conclude a devastating civil war, but recent distrust and halted implementations have sparked renewed military actions, threatening to undermine the fragile progress achieved in South Sudan.
In summary, the recent military operation leading to the recapture of Nasir marks a critical moment in South Sudan’s ongoing conflict. We observe significant military movements, heightened humanitarian concerns, and active diplomatic engagements aimed at restoring peace. It is imperative for all involved parties to adhere to the peace agreement and take necessary steps to mitigate violence and suffering among civilians.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
