Renewed Clashes in South Sudan Threaten Fragile Peace Deal

Two days of fresh clashes between government troops and rebel factions have intensified concerns about the fragile 2018 peace agreement in South Sudan.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) accused government forces of launching attacks on their fighters in Western Equatoria and Upper Nile States. According to the SPLA-IO, one rebel fighter and two government soldiers were killed, with several others wounded.

These renewed clashes threaten to unravel the peace deal aimed at ending years of brutal civil war between President Salva Kiir’s government and forces loyal to his former deputy, Riek Machar.

Fighting erupted again near Mathiang in Longechuk County, where rebel fighters reportedly joined armed local youth to hold key positions against government soldiers.

Meanwhile, military mobilisation in Pigi County, Jonglei State, has alarmed civilians as forces loyal to Machar and the White Army militia gather and move toward Malakal. The rising tensions have caused widespread fear, with many civilians fleeing their homes to avoid becoming caught in the conflict

Fighting on the Ground and Rising Political Tensions

Clashes between government forces and SPLA-IO rebels have reignited tensions in Western Equatoria and Upper Nile States. Rebel fighters, joined by local youth, have taken positions against government troops near Mathiang in Longechuk County. In Jonglei’s Pigi County, forces loyal to Vice President Riek Machar and allied militias are mobilising, causing civilians to flee.

The situation is worsened by reports of Ugandan troops supporting government operations, which Machar condemns as a violation of sovereignty. A recent border clash between South Sudanese and Ugandan forces also escalated tensions before a ceasefire was reached.

Politically, Machar’s house arrest earlier this year sparked international concern over renewed conflict. The SPLA-IO refuses dialogue until violence ends and detainees are released. Meanwhile, Juba faces rising youth gang violence and forced recruitment into government forces, with local groups stepping in to provide support and mentorship.

With fighting spreading and regional tensions escalating, South Sudan stands at a crossroads. Whether its leaders can restore trust and honour the promise of peace will determine the country’s future stability and the lives of millions caught in the crossfire.

To prevent a slide back into full-scale conflict, immediate de-escalation orders must be enforced, especially in hotspots like Mathiang, Pigi, and Malakal. Recommitment to the peace process, including the rapid integration of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF), remains essential.