A South Sudanese military general and diplomat has launched a movement aimed at ousting the government of President Salva Kiir, declaring a “national uprising”.
In a detailed declaration dated 28 December 2025, Gen. Wilson Deng Kuoirot—formerly the deputy chief of staff for operations in the army (SSPDF) and ambassador to South Africa—announced the formation of the National Uprising Movement (NUM).
The document accuses President Kiir’s administration of economic collapse, systematic insecurity, and the failure of governance, declaring an end to what it calls the “First Republic” (2011-2025).
Gen. Kuoirot, who hails from Jonglei State, alleges that the transitional government formed under the 2018 peace agreement has overstayed its mandate, which he says expired in 2022.
He called for the government to be dissolved and replaced with an interim administration of civilian technocrats, tasked with stabilising the country and organising elections within two years.
“The regime in Juba is the source of armament for communities… It encourages tribal militias to raid each other,” the declaration states, claiming the government has “forfeited its sovereign right to monopolise the use of arms.”
The new movement urges all patriotic members of the security forces and other armed groups to join its newly formed National Uprising Army.
While initially calling for the peaceful resignation of President Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar, the document warns that if they refuse, an armed uprising will be unavoidable.
“There is no other way to topple the Juba dictator except through an armed intifada,” it reads.
The group offers both leaders immunity from prosecution if they step aside for a democratic transition.
Radio Tamazuj has not verified the level of support for the new movement or the whereabouts of Gen. Kuoirot.
The defections of veteran politician Nhial Deng Nhial and now General Kuoirot signal a potent new challenge to Kiir’s rule from within the heart of his traditional support base.
There was no immediate comment from the government in Juba.
South Sudan has been plagued by political violence, economic instability, and humanitarian crisis for years, despite several peace deals.