By Abunerry, Ayella
This morning, the SPLA-IO spokesperson announced
two major military developments: the capture of the SSPDF Yuai base in Jonglei
State and the Nadapal border post in Eastern Equatoria State. The fall of Yuai
followed earlier losses in Nyirol and its surrounding areas, while the capture
of Nadapal came after consecutive confrontations in Torit West. My primary
concern here is Nadapal.
Nadapal is one of the richest and most strategic
border posts in South Sudan. It serves as a vital gateway linking Kenya to Juba
through Torit. Apart from Nimule, Nadapal generates substantial revenue that
supports the national budget. Its capture, therefore, represents not only a
military setback but also a significant economic blow to the government.
From my perspective, the continued fighting is
largely a result of the government’s failure to fully implement the peace
agreement and its decision to overhaul SPLM-IO leadership unilaterally. These
actions have deepened mistrust and prolonged instability.
Whatever one’s opinion, SPLA-IO is not a force
that can be ignored in the pursuit of peace. It is not merely a rebel group; it
enjoys widespread popular support compared to a government that increasingly
risks alienating its own people by dismissing legitimate political grievances.
The fall of Nadapal should also raise serious
concerns about the security of other border posts, including Nimule, despite
its stronger defensive position. The current military tactics employed by
SPLA-IO do not reflect a return to negotiations, largely due to the absence of
political will from President Kiir’s administration. While this view may appear
biased, the reality is that citizens must place pressure on the government to
pursue genuine, inclusive negotiations free from betrayal and manipulation.
When God sent Moses to Egypt, he delivered one
consistent message: “Let my people go.” The pharaoh’s stubborn
resistance to liberation ultimately had devastating consequences for Egypt.
Likewise, J1 Palace has resisted diplomacy for far too long. Today, diplomacy
is crying out from the ICU, critically wounded and in desperate need of
revival. The question is, who will restore it?
As we begin the year 2026, I urge citizens to
remain conscious of the need for real change. I am deeply concerned about the
proposed elections. They deceive us in broad daylight that elections will bring
deliverance, but how can that be possible when the same individuals and systems
will control the process? Genuine change can only come through inclusive
elections guided by a supreme, people-driven constitution.
We should not take the fall of Nadapal lightly.
It is a warning sign. If there is any support I can give toward national
liberation, it is this: President Kiir must leave J1. Our people cannot
continue living in fear, sleeplessness, and economic despair. South Sudan needs
total liberation from corruption, hegemonic dominance, despotic governance, and
kleptocracy. That liberation is only possible through a fundamental change in
leadership at J1.
End
Torit.
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