Army chief targets Nhial Deng Nhial in crackdown on rebellions

JUBA – The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), Gen. Paul Nang Majok, has extended his crackdown on rebellions to Nhial Deng Nhial, the veteran politician who recently renounced his membership in the SPLM and announced the formation of the South Sudan Salvation Movement (SSSM)—a move widely seen as a challenge to President Salva Kiir’s administration.

In his first media appearance on Lakes Media on Monday, Nhial clarified that he had not abandoned the SPLM but had instead launched what he called SSSM, describing it as a platform to push for reforms “from within his mother party.”

However, during his inaugural address at a thanksgiving parade held at Bilpam General Headquarters in Juba on October 29, 2025, Gen. Nang—now serving his second term as CDF—publicly branded Nhial a rebel.

“The CDF reiterated his resolve and determination to wage war against those who have taken up arms against the government, including Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial, who recently rebelled,” read a statement released by Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, the SSPDF spokesperson.

The declaration comes amid intensified military operations against armed groups and community militias across the country. On Tuesday, the SSPDF carried out airstrikes on Gelweng militia bases in Tonj East County, Warrap State, days after issuing an ultimatum for them to voluntarily disarm.

Shortly after, the army declared “The Red Belt” group in Jonglei State a rebel movement—an indication that they too may face the same military action as their counterparts in Warrap.

Nhial, who is reportedly based abroad, has since joined forces with the United People’s Alliance (UPA), a coalition of opposition groups that remain outside the Revitalized Peace Agreement. His inclusion on the army’s target list signals an escalation of the CDF’s campaign against dissent.

During the Bilpam parade, Gen. Nang also ordered all unit commanders to remove ghost names from payrolls to ensure that legitimate soldiers receive their long-overdue salaries. He warned that officers who fail to comply would be compelled to repay misappropriated funds retroactively.

South Sudanese soldiers have gone several months without pay, fueling discontent within the ranks.

In a separate directive, the CDF banned the sale of military food rations and instructed division commanders to ensure timely delivery to rightful recipients. He cautioned that officers involved in diverting rations would face disciplinary measures.

To enforce compliance, Nang tasked the Assistant Chief of Defence Forces for Administration, Finance and Personnel, the Chief of Military Intelligence, and the Director of Military Police to coordinate oversight and hold violators accountable.