A large number of South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) troops has been assembled in Baidit Payam of Bor County, Jonglei State, in preparation for a possible advance to northern Jonglei, where clashes with Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) forces have recently intensified.
The forces stationed in Bor were drawn from several army divisions, including Divisions 3, 5 and 12, according to security sources. Division 3 is based in Wunyiik in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. Division 5 is headquartered in Wau, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, while Division 12 is based in Lakes State.
Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Paul Nang Majok, who is in Jonglei State overseeing military operations, addressed the troops on Wednesday following the loss of an SSPDF position in Pajut, Duk County, on Jan. 16.
SPLA-IO forces in Jonglei and other parts of the country have threatened to advance toward Bor and Juba, citing what they describe as the collapse of the 2018 peace agreement and the detention of their leader, Dr. Riek Machar.
Speaking to troops assembled in the Jalle area of Baidit Payam, Nang ordered the forces to prepare to move toward Duk County to reinforce National Security Service (NSS) personnel deployed in Poktap, a town located a few kilometers away from Pajut.
“We have brought you because we are facing a problem ahead of us. I have given you seven days only to finish it,” Nang said, referring to the conflict with SPLA-IO forces and allied armed youth known as the White Army.
Amid jubilation from the assembled SSPDF troops, Nang said the fighting in Jonglei should conclude within a week, after which attention could shift to the disarmament exercise in Warrap State. He warned against allowing rebel forces to advance through Bor, referencing past conflicts in 1991 and 2013.
“This should not be allowed to happen again in 2026,” he said. “The rebellion here should be ended and crushed.”
Top security officials attending the gathering included National Security Service Internal Security Bureau Director General Gen. Mawien Mawien Ariik and Inspector General of Police Gen. Saeed Chawul Lom.
Tensions in Ayod
Tensions are also rising in Ayod County, Jonglei State, amid reports of preparations for possible fighting between SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces in Ayod town.
Ayod County Commissioner James Chuol Jiek visited the SSPDF barracks, where troops have been placed on high alert amid fears of an SPLA-IO attack.
Despite reports that SSPDF troops might abandon their positions, Chuol dismissed the claims, saying the situation in Ayod would not mirror recent incidents in Waat, Yuai and Pajut, where SSPDF bases were overrun.
“This base has committed officers,” Chuol said. “I came to check on them, and if fighting happens, you will find me here.”
Wearing military fatigues, Chuol said neither he nor the division commander, Gen. Tito Biel, would abandon the base. He said the forces were well-equipped and prepared to defend Ayod.
“We are not going anywhere. This is our place,” he said. “People should ignore rumors that we are leaving. We are waiting for the criminals to come.”