Unified forces’ clashes displace nearly 100 families in Athony

JUBA – At least 99 families have been displaced following clashes between Unified VIP protection personnel involving a section of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition in Athony area.

On Wednesday, a delegation led by Nyang Doldol Nyang, Commissioner of Alal County in the Abyei Special Administrative Area, paid a site visit to Athony Village to inspect the conditions of its residents.

“During the visit, Hon. Nyang Doldol was briefed on the conditions of the displaced individuals from Athony Village as a result of the recent unrest and clashes on 6 October 2025, which led to the displacement of more than 99 families who took shelter in the United Nations Mission compound located in Kadhian village,” it added.

Mr. Doldol appreciated the efforts of the Ghanaian Forces Commander in addressing the situation and providing aid to the displaced individuals of Athony.

“Nyang Doldol Nyang communicated with the citizens, some of them expressed their desire to return to Athony, while others demanded transfer to the Amit-Market area, and some expressed their preference to move to Abyei Town,” it continued.

He noted that they would seek to communicate with the citizens first to know their opinions regarding arrangements for their accommodation and transportation.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the Ghanaian forces responsible for the mission in Kadhian village stated that the humanitarian conditions for the displaced individuals are extremely difficult.

He echoed their determination to take the necessary measures to mitigate the current impact.

He also pointed out that the responsibility towards these citizens lies with the Abyei Area Administration, which must work to improve their conditions as soon as possible to provide them with suitable housing.

‎‎The commissioner was accompanied by Chief Bith Ajak Malual, Chief of Achueng Clan, Chief Ring Acuil Juoch, Chief of Abior Clan, Chief Aknon Ajoung Deng, Chief of Aniel, and other government officials.

According to SSPDF Spokesperson of Maj Gen Lul Ruai Koang, 14 Unified VIP protection personnel have died in a clash in Athony area of Abyei Special Administrative Area following the clashes. He maintained that the conflict was “not politically driven.”

“It appears like the conflict was not politically motivated, and for us to get to the bottom of it, of course, there is a need for further investigation to be carried out so that we know it was a love triangle, which appears to be the case, but I can assure you that it was not politically motivated,” Ruai noted.

Tensions have flared across South Sudan since the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, who is currently facing trial for murder and treason charges, brought against him alongside seven of his co-accused by the Salva Kiir-led administration.