SPLA-IO declares decisive phase of war, orders restraint toward civilians

The Sudan People’s Liberation Army–in Opposition (SPLA-IO) has declared that its armed struggle against the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has entered what it called a decisive phase, while simultaneously ordering its commanders and fighters to exercise strict restraint toward civilians and respect international humanitarian law.

In a statement dated January 25, 2026, the SPLA-IO Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Lt. Gen. Wesley Welebe Samson, praised opposition forces for what he described as courage and determination in confronting government troops, asserting that the movement was advancing toward Juba from multiple directions.

“Your bravery marks a decisive turning point — the beginning of the penultimate phase of this struggle. We are advancing relentlessly toward Juba from all directions,” Welebe said, framing the military campaign as an effort to end what he termed a rogue regime’s hold on power.

The declaration comes amid intensifying clashes between SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces and their allied community militias in parts of Jonglei and Upper Nile states, sparking renewed fears of widespread displacement and civilian casualties in regions already grappling with humanitarian crises.

Despite the escalatory rhetoric, the opposition commander issued explicit instructions prohibiting abuses against civilians and revenge attacks, warning that such actions would betray the movement’s objectives.

“We fight for liberation, not vengeance. Ethnic cleansing, targeting of civilians, or any form of indiscriminate violence will not be tolerated,” he said, adding that commanders must uphold discipline and military professionalism across all units.

Lt. Gen. Welebe further ordered humane treatment of prisoners of war, stressing that detainees must be handled in accordance with international humanitarian law, with no mistreatment, summary executions, or acts of retaliation permitted.

He also appealed directly to civilians living near areas of current or anticipated fighting, urging them to move away from military installations, government positions, and expected combat zones.

“This is not a suggestion — it is a matter of life and death,” the statement read, encouraging residents to seek shelter in safer locations, with relatives, or under humanitarian protection where possible.

Concluding the statement, Welebe portrayed SPLA-IO forces as liberators rather than conquerors, pledging a just and inclusive future after the war. He claimed the end of the conflict was approaching, though independent verification of battlefield developments remains limited due to restricted access to affected areas.

The statement underscores the increasingly confrontational tone adopted by both government and opposition military leaders, raising concerns among regional and international observers that renewed hostilities could further destabilise South Sudan’s fragile peace and deepen the humanitarian emergency.