White Army, SPLA-IO announce deployment of over 10,000 forces in Jonglei

NASIR — The White Army and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) have announced an imminent deployment of more than 10,000 fighters in Jonglei State amid preparations for a potential military offensive as government forces advance toward opposition-held territories.

In a statement issued Friday, 23 January 2026, from Kuotkea Payam in Nasir County, White Army spokesperson Honson Chuol James confirmed that a first batch of SPLA-IO fighters had already reached Walgak, while a much larger second wave of forces was expected to arrive soon in Lankien County for deployment to what he described as the “designated war front.”

“This statement is issued to inform the entire Nuer and Lou Nuer community that the first batch of reinforcements from Division (3), SPLA-IO, numbering approximately 300 forces, has safely arrived in Walgak,” the statement read.

It further added that “the second batch, comprising forces of special forces Gangdorkiir and the White Army, under the leadership of General Kang Makane and General Thiech Doluony, alongside an estimated 9,000 Gaatmanmajok fighters, is expected to arrive soon in Lankien County.”

Based on the figures cited in the statement, the combined forces announced a total of 12,000 fighters, a figure subject to verification.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following the recent opposition capture of Pajut and a directive by the Chief of Defence Forces of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), Gen. Paul Nang, ordering government troops to crush rebellions within seven days.

The SSPDF has recently deployed additional forces to Jonglei State, raising fears of imminent large-scale clashes between government troops and opposition forces allied to suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, despite growing calls on both parties to cease hostilities.

Chuol’s statement also revealed that initial movements toward Duk County were temporarily halted on the orders of a sector commander to allow forces to regroup and coordinate. “The directive emphasised coordinated movement toward Bor Town in the coming days to ensure unity of command and operational discipline,” it said.

The statement also reported further mobilisation by White Army units. “Commanders of the White Army of Jikany are reported to be crossing the Sobat River toward Munloal to reinforce their allies’ forces operating in Pajut, Duk, Puktap, and Bor, with the final destination being Juba,” it added.

Alongside the military updates, the spokesperson issued warnings to civilians in affected areas. “Residents of Duk, Panyigor, Puktap, and Bor Town are strongly advised to remain in their homes and raise white flags, avoid carrying weapons or military equipment, and keep a safe distance from SSPDF bases and installations,” the statement said.

The developments underscore a rapidly deteriorating security situation in Jonglei and surrounding regions, with growing concern that civilian populations could once again bear the brunt of renewed hostilities.