Two major South Sudanese opposition movements have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening political and military coordination and advancing a new peace process in the conflict-affected country.
Representatives of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army–In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) and the National Salvation Front/Army (NAS) signed the memorandum of understanding on March 6, following consultations between the two groups, according to a document seen by Radio Tamazuj.
The deal builds on a military alliance the groups signed in August 2025 and outlines joint political and military objectives. These include addressing what the parties describe as the “root causes” of South Sudan’s conflict and promoting a federal democratic system of governance.
In the preamble, the groups said they share principles centered on democracy, the rule of law, peace, and stability, while expressing concern over the country’s political, security, and humanitarian situation.
The agreement commits both sides to ending hostilities between their forces, expanding military cooperation, and coordinating political positions in peace talks and other engagements. Key objectives include establishing an inclusive transitional government, developing a people-driven permanent constitution, and unifying opposition forces.
The memorandum also calls for a joint high-level committee to oversee long-term cooperation, resolve disputes, draft a comprehensive peace plan, and coordinate with international and civil society actors. Disputes will first be handled by the committee and, if unresolved, referred to the leadership of both movements.
Either party may amend or terminate the agreement with at least 14 days’ written notice. In case of termination, outstanding matters such as shared assets and logistics are to be settled within one month.
The document was signed by senior officials from both groups, including NAS Secretary-General Nasike Teko Allan and SPLM/A-IO Secretary-General Regina Joseph Kapa, along with top military officials.
Both groups are active in Upper Nile and Equatoria regions, where violence has displaced civilians and disrupted humanitarian operations.
South Sudan has endured years of political and armed conflict despite peace agreements aimed at stabilizing the country.
The SPLM/A-IO, led in an acting capacity by Deputy Chairman Oyet Nathaniel following the detention of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, is a signatory to the 2018 peace deal, which has weakened amid rising violence and repeated ceasefire violations. NAS, led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo, did not sign the 2018 agreement, citing its failure to address the conflict’s root causes.
