The declaration, which comes amid growing political and military tensions across the country, marks a significant escalation and could signal a renewed phase of violence in a region that has seen relative calm in recent months.
Open Defiance of Peace Agreement
Gen. Sunday Martin, a prominent figure in the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), accused the government of failing to implement key provisions of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, including the unification of forces and preparation for general elections.
“We can no longer remain in silence while the government delays peace implementation. If they do not act, we will,” Martin reportedly told his commanders during a meeting at the barracks near Yambio, the capital of Western Equatoria.
He emphasized that military action is now on the table, saying it is the only way to compel the government to act.
Rising Tensions Within SPLA-IO
The threat from Gen. Martin also exposes internal cracks within the SPLA-IO, as some commanders grow impatient with the slow pace of integration and lack of political progress. It comes shortly after reports of defections from SPLA-IO ranks to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), raising questions about Machar’s ability to control all his commanders.
Military observers warn that splinter groups and rogue generals could derail the fragile peace process as the country edges closer to scheduled elections.
Government Response Pending
As of Tuesday, the Transitional Government of National Unity had not officially responded to Gen. Martin’s remarks. Security analysts say any retaliation or dismissal of his threats could further inflame tensions in Western Equatoria, a region still recovering from years of civil war.
Peace Monitors Call for Restraint
International peace monitors and civil society groups are urging restraint and calling for immediate high-level dialogue between SPLA-IO leadership and the government to avert renewed conflict.
“This is a critical moment for South Sudan. The peace partners must act swiftly to address the concerns of opposition commanders and reaffirm their commitment to nonviolence,” said one senior official with the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC).
Conclusion:
General John Sunday Martin’s threat of renewed warfare highlights the fragile state of South Sudan’s peace process. With delayed elections, unfulfilled promises, and increasingly frustrated military leaders, the country risks slipping back into conflict if urgent action is not taken.
