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THE CAPTURE OF NADAPAL: A Serious Blow to the Kiir Government.

2-1-2026

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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