In an effort to de-escalate rising tensions in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, and Western Equatoria State, South Sudan’s Presidency convened a high-level meeting on Monday, chaired by President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
The extended meeting included key political figures such as First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, Vice President for the Economic Cluster Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, Vice President for the Service Cluster Josephine Lagu, and leaders of various political parties.
The leaders agreed that soldiers from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) en route to Nasir County should proceed without disruption. The deployment aims to replace long-standing forces stationed in the area, according to officials.
Following the meeting, Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth addressed the media, stressing the leaders’ commitment to national unity.
“The leaders agreed to cooperate for the sake of the nation,” he said.
Minister Makuei also called for community cooperation along the route from Malakal to Nasir County, urging locals to facilitate the safe passage of the troops.
Puot Kang, Minister of Petroleum and a leading member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO), echoed this appeal. He urged residents to ensure the forces reach their barracks in Nasir without incident, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to maintain peace.
Civil society representative Edmond Yakani described the meeting as “positive and cordial,” highlighting its focus on public education about the importance of peace.
“This dialogue is a step forward in fostering understanding and unity among communities,” Yakani said.
The Presidency also issued a broader appeal, urging citizens to avoid spreading harmful propaganda on social media, which it said could worsen tensions.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over instability in parts of South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County, where tensions have occasionally flared.
The security situation in Nasir County has been unstable since mid-February, following clashes between the SSPDF and the White Army. Tensions escalated further after the government decided to send additional forces, including elements of the Agwelek militia group led by General Johnson Olony.
Local communities have expressed fears that the deployment could lead to civilian targeting or a disarmament campaign. They have called for the deployment of the Necessary Unified Force, as outlined in the 2018 peace agreement, rather than the current forces.
In Western Equatoria State, unrest and insecurity have risen recently after President Kiir unilaterally removed SPLM-IO-affiliated governor Gen. Alfred Futuyo.