Over 11,000 SPLA-IO forces defect to SSPDF in major blow for Machar

JUBA — More than 11,000 forces from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) have defected to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in a major blow for Riek Machar’s military wing.

According to a statement issued by SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang on Saturday, the forces, led by Maj. Gen. Peter Gatkek Tolchieck and Lt. Gen. Keer Kai Geu, renounced the opposition army and pledged allegiance to President Salva Kiir’s government.

Tolchieck, commander of Brigade 1, Sector 3 of SPLA-IO in Nyirol County, Jonglei State, reportedly defected with 6,100 officers and soldiers. The group publicly declared their allegiance to the government and the SSPDF during a ceremony held on October 25 in Pul-Turuk village, Nyirol County.

In a parallel move, Lt. Gen. Keer Kai Geu rejoined the government forces with 5,400 personnel drawn from various organized forces, including the South Sudan National Police Service, Prison Service, Wildlife Service, and 300 members of the National Security Service’s Internal Security Bureau under Col. Malang Yol Rial.

“With these defections, SSPDF has indirectly regained control of Pading headquarters of Nyirol County, Nyambor, and Riang,” the statement noted.

Lul described the move as a “bold and heroic decision,” commending both commanders for abandoning rebellion and embracing peace under the national army.

He also extended appreciation to Nyirol County Commissioner James Bol Makuei for his “exemplary leadership and persuasive qualities” that helped convince the forces to rejoin the government side.

“The SSPDF command and leadership warmly welcome back the returning forces to its ranks and file,” the statement concluded.

The large-scale defection marks one of the most significant realignments within the SPLA-IO ranks in recent months, as South Sudan’s fragile peace process continues to face delays in implementing security arrangements and integrating forces into a unified national army.