South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) on Wednesday said the renewed fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and Sudan People’s Liberation Army –in Opposition (SPLA-IO) undermines the longstanding ceasefire.
The Chairperson of CTSAMVM, Maj. Gen.Yitayal Gelaw Bitew, expressed regret that the ceasefire’s integrity has been compromised, particularly by recent fighting between the two signatory parties to the 2018 revitalized peace agreement, along the border between Western Equatoria and Western Bahr El Ghazel State.
The clashes, which broke out since Januaury 11, 2025, resulted in civilian casualties and displacement.
“This breach of the ceasefire is a concerning development. CTSAMVM strongly condemns this violence, and we appeal to both parties to take full control of their forces. It is essential that dialogue and mediation replace violence as the means to resolve grievances,” said Gelaw during the technical meeting of CTSAMVM in Juba.
He said CTSAMVM has swiftly mobilized its monitoring teams to investigate the clashes, adding that the investigation will also extend to the clashes in Boo- Bridge area.
Gelaw called for both sides to fulfil their responsibilities under the peace agreement and refrain from further violence, urging the leadership of the two sides to lead by example.
“The solution lies in dialogue, not in the barrel of a gun,” he said, echoing prior remarks made by the (RJMEC) Interim Chairperson, who also stressed the importance of strengthening security arrangements in the wake of similar incidents.
The violence in Western Bahr El Ghazel is just one of several incidents CTSAMVM is investigating.
Allegations of ceasefire violations have also been reported in Central Equatoria and Upper Nile States.
In addition, CTSAMVM also observed that staffing shortages in South Sudan’s prison system have raised concerns about the operational capacity to maintain security.
Gelaw emphasized that delays in deploying unified forces could erode the progress made through training and security arrangements.
“Without the timely deployment of unified forces, the progress we’ve made in training will be compromised,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, Gelaw pointed to the recent positive developments in the peace process.
He cited the Long Duration Patrol (LDP) in Malakal from January 9-13, 2025, and a joint air patrol to Nasir Town on January 16, as hopeful signs that peace efforts are progressing in some areas.
The delegation, which included CTSAMVM, ceasefire Technical Committee (CTC) members and board members met with both security and civilian leaders in Nasir to discuss on going peace-building initiatives.
“The people of Nasir are eager for peaceful coexistence. Their commitment to peace gives me hope that South Sudan can overcome its divisions,” said Gelaw.
Gelaw also commended the cooperation of the Office of the Chief of Defense Forces, the signatory parties, and stakeholders, which has enabled CTSAMVM to carry out unhindered patrols across the country.
However, he reiterated the importance of continued collaboration to ensure that the peace process is not derailed by violence.
The meeting concluded with remarks from other party representatives, who called for a continued commitment to peace.
Maj. Gen Wuoi Mayom, the representative of the incumbent transition government of national Unity (ITGoNU) emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and a spirit of cooperation among the parties.
“We must engage in these discussions with the goal of strengthening the peace,” he said.
Meanwhile, the SPLM-IO representative Maj. Gen Chuol Rueg expressed his gratitude for the joint field visit to Nasir and called on CTSAMVM to extend similar visits to other conflict hotspots.
He also stressed the need for the swift deployment of unified forces to prevent further clashes.
The representative of South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), Maj. Gen Jany Kaway emphasized the importance of transparency and positive engagement in the peace process.
Maj. Gen Bior Leek, the representative of the Former Detainees (FDs) highlighted the need to address the underlying causes of conflict, such as disputes over land and local administration.
Despite the challenges, the representatives expressed hope for a peaceful year ahead.
“We must work together to ensure that South Sudan remains peaceful, not only within its borders but also in cooperation with neighbouring countries like Sudan,” said Leek.