Jonglei MP applauds Lou-Nuer White Army’s disengagement from SPLA-IO, urges broader National dialogue

A member of the Jonglei State Parliament has applauded the Lou-Nuer White Army for allegedly disengaging from SPLA-IO forces in the Greater Lou-Nuer areas, describing the move as critical to protecting civilians and easing tensions.

In a statement released yesterday, Wany Bum Makhor, who represents Uror County, said he was recognizing the armed youth for “delinking and disengaging themselves from SPLA-IO forces and for remaining in their luaks, a responsible decision that helped prevent further escalation and enabled the SSPDF to reclaim previously overrun bases without unnecessary harm to civilians.”

Makhor also commended the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), led by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Paul Nang Majok, for what he described as professional conduct during operations in the Greater Lou-Nuer areas.

“Their conduct in sparing civilians and allowing communities to continue their daily lives reflects the values expected of a national and professional army,” he said.

The lawmaker stressed that attention should now shift to humanitarian and political priorities, including the safe resettlement of displaced people.

He called on Jonglei State authorities and national leaders to facilitate the return of affected families and support relief efforts.

“The remaining tasks now lie in the political and humanitarian processes, including the safe resettlement of displaced persons and the provision of humanitarian assistance to enable families to return to their towns and villages with dignity,” Makhor said.

Describing the violence as politically driven, he urged civilians not to be drawn into the conflict.

“This conflict is a contest over political leadership and power, not a fight that should endanger innocent people. Civilians must remain neutral and resist manipulation by any side in the name of communal or tribal interests,” Said Makhor.

Makhor noted that in areas such as Pathai, Yuai, and Pajut, the SSPDF allowed civilians to move freely, calling it a positive example of military professionalism. He emphasized that the army’s behavior would influence South Sudan’s standing internationally.

“As the national army, they must continue to distinguish themselves through respect for humanitarian law and the protection of civilian lives,” he said.

The MP also welcomed President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s decision to initiate inclusive dialogue. He praised the formation of a body bringing together parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement and national figures as “a positive and necessary step toward lasting peace and national unity.”

Makhor called on all armed actors to prioritize civilian protection.

“I therefore call upon the SSPDF and all opposition forces to put the country and its people first, protect civilians, and strictly adhere to international humanitarian law.”

The Greater Lou-Nuer areas   including Uror, Nyirol, and Akobo counties have frequently been flashpoints due to the presence of armed youth groups and shifting military control between rival forces. These confrontations have often displaced thousands of civilians, disrupted livelihoods, and strained humanitarian operations.