SOUTH SUDAN ARMY CHIEF GIVES TROOPS SEVEN DAYS TO CRUSH REBELLION

The Chief of Defence Forces of South Sudan has given government troops a seven-day ultimatum to “crush the rebellion” in the eastern part of the country, warning that the ongoing fighting poses a serious threat to the security of the capital, Juba.

In recent days, forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) are reported to have attacked and seized several areas in Jonglei State. According to a local journalist who spoke to the BBC, the opposition forces have made significant advances, although these reports could not be independently verified.

The latest clashes have heightened fears for the safety of Bor, the capital of Jonglei State, which lies approximately a two-hour drive from Juba. Bor is considered a strategic town due to its proximity to the national capital.

The leader of the SPLA-IO and suspended First Vice President, Riek Machar, is currently facing trial on charges of murder, treason, and crimes against humanity, which he has denied.

There are growing concerns that the renewed fighting could reignite a full-scale civil war in South Sudan, recalling the devastating conflict that lasted from 2013 to 2018.

In response to the escalating violence, additional South Sudanese army troops have been deployed to Bor. The town was the first major city captured by opposition forces during the previous civil war and is viewed as a key strategic gateway to Juba.

“We brought you here for a specific mission,” said the Chief of Defence Forces, General Paul Nang Majok, while addressing his troops.

“I am giving you only seven days to complete it  to eliminate the rebels in those areas and bring them back under our control.”

The South Sudanese army is reportedly being supported by Ugandan troops, although their exact number remains unclear. One report suggested that about 4,000 Ugandan soldiers may be involved, but this information has not been independently confirmed.