South Sudan Army Successfully Recaptures Nasir from the White Army

South Sudanese forces reclaim Nasir from the White Army militia, marking a significant military operation. General Paul Nang Majok hailed the troops’ efforts during a visit post-battle. The situation is complicated by rising humanitarian crises, regional tensions, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure peace in South Sudan.

On a recent visit to the strategic town of Nasir, South Sudan’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Paul Nang Majok, confirmed the successful recapture of the area from the White Army militia by government troops. This military operation marks a significant event following the 2018 peace agreement. Majok, accompanied by key military leaders, praised the courage and determination of the soldiers involved in this operation.

During his address to the troops, General Majok conveyed greetings from the President of South Sudan and acknowledged the sacrifices made during the operation, which led to the loss of several soldiers, including General David Majur Dak. He declared that the White Army had been effectively “wiped out” and emphasized the importance of retrieving weapons seized during previous clashes.

Majok urged local residents to return any captured arms, including artillery and military vehicles, and called on SPLA soldiers to surrender their weapons in alignment with the peace deal’s security framework. He indicated the need for weapons recovery amidst ongoing tensions.

The ongoing violence escalated following a deadly attack by the White Army on March 4, which overran a military base resulting in multiple casualties, significantly aggravating national and regional stability concerns. The White Army, primarily comprised of young men from the Nuer ethnic group, operates independently of formal military structures.

Accusations have emerged suggesting collusion between the SPLA-IO forces of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and the militia to undermine government authority, a claim his allies refute. The unraveling violence triggered Machar’s house arrest, a decision criticized for violating the peace agreement by various international entities.

The humanitarian impact has been devastating, with the United Nations reporting nearly 200 fatalities and over 125,000 people displaced due to conflicts in regions such as Upper Nile and Jonglei since March. Human Rights Watch has accused the SSPDF of employing incendiary devices in civilian areas, resulting in tragic loss of life.

Diplomatic efforts to quell this conflict have intensified, with IGAD envoy Raila Odinga engaging in discussions with President Kiir, while Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni visited Juba to reinforce bilateral relations. Simultaneously, regional organizations like the African Union and UNMISS are calling for restraint and warning of serious repercussions if operations continue unilaterally.

Despite the Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018 intended to stabilize the region following a civil war that claimed over 400,000 lives, mistrust has increased, and military mobilization remains a significant concern. This delicate situation underscores the challenges ahead in achieving lasting peace in South Sudan.

The recapture of Nasir by South Sudanese forces is a pivotal development in the ongoing conflict with the White Army. However, the violence has resulted in humanitarian crises, significant casualties, and international condemnation. Diplomatic efforts are crucial to addressing the political tensions exacerbated by recent violence and restoring stability amidst increasing risks to the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement.

Original Source: chimpreports.com