SOUTH SUDAN: Mass Exodus From SPLA-IO To SSPDF, A Shift In Allegiance Amidst Political Tensions

By Debora Akur Chol, South Sudan

A significant shift in military allegiance has been observed, as personnel from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLA-IO), led by Dr. Riek Machar, defect to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) under President Salva Kiir.

Approximately 1,104 SPLA-IO members stationed in Western and Eastern Equatoria, along with various training centers in Juba, Bahr el Ghazal, and Jonglei, have made the transition to the SSPDF.

Brigadier General Gabriel Bol Anuer, the former commander for mobilization and organization of SPLA-IO in the Bahr el Ghazal region, announced that he and 500 troops have officially abandoned their ranks for the SSPDF.

“I, Brig-Gen. Gabriel Bol Anuer, speaking on behalf of the forces under my command, hereby declare our withdrawal from the SPLA-IO faction led by Dr. Riek Machar, and our full alignment with the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) under the esteemed leadership of General Salva Kiir,” Anuer stated.

Anuer cited political mismanagement and the politicization of security arrangements within the SPLA-IO as key factors prompting their defection. Additionally, he raised concerns over targeted killings and the torture of non-Nuer members within Machar’s forces, referencing a troubling incident in Wunaliet cantonment where 48 officers reportedly faced brutal treatment.

“I reaffirm my allegiance and that of all other soldiers under my command to the wise leadership of H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir, President of the Republic of South Sudan and Commander-in-Chief of the SSPDF. As we pledge our commitment to the SSPDF, we aim to work diligently towards achieving peace, security, and stability,” he emphasized.

Brigadier General Compeo Andrea Matia, who also led 500 defectors, expressed disillusionment with the SPLA-IO movement. “We initially joined SPLA-IO for reform, but have come to realize that we were drawn into a futile struggle. Dr. Riek Machar misled us into believing we were fighting a just cause, but it has become clear that our efforts mainly served to prop up his regime,” Matia stated.

The defectors criticized persistent tribalism, nepotism, and a lack of clear direction within the SPLA-IO as motives for their departure. “We are ready to collaborate with the state government to restore peace and security for our people, and we fully support President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The integration of our forces into the SSPDF will set a precedent and serve as an example for others who are still hesitant to join us,” Matia added.

David John Kumuri, spokesman for South Sudan’s National Security Service (NSS), confirmed the defection of 604 SPLA-IO personnel. “The defected forces primarily originated from Western and Eastern Equatoria, with 549 from the former and 55 from the latter,” he noted.

Kumuri highlighted the significance of their reintegration into the SSPDF for ensuring stability in the country. He also encouraged any remaining forces contemplating defection to consider joining the SSPDF. “The NSS guarantees that the ongoing reception of defectors, including those from SPLA-IO, is vital for fostering peace and tranquility for our country and its citizens,” Kumuri concluded