On March 6, 2026, the SPLA-IO, aligned with suspended First Vice President Dr Riek Machar Teny, and NAS, a rebel group led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo Swaka, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance political and military coordination.
Speaking during the monthly technical committee meeting in Juba on Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Teshome Anagawe Ayana, Chairperson of CTSAMVM, expressed concern that the new pact could complicate the already fragile security situation.
“CTSAMVM was also concerned to see the announcement that on March 6, the SPLM/A-IO and NAS had signed a Memorandum of Understanding committing to closer political and military coordination,” Maj. Gen. Teshome said.
Maj. Gen. Teshome urged both groups to reconsider the agreement and instead recommit to existing ceasefire arrangements
“CTSAMVM reminds my IO colleagues that this alliance is prohibited under R-ARCSS and directly contravenes the principle that signatory parties must transition away from conflict-related activities towards peace. I urge the SPLM/A-IO to revoke this new cooperation agreement.”
In September 2025, NAS, led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo Swaka and the SPLA-IO under acting chairman Nathaniel Oyet, formed a military-political alliance, citing the collapse of the 2018 peace agreement.
They have since carried out several joint operations, including the brief capture of the SSPDF base in Kediba in Mundri East County in Western Equatoria State on 24 September.
This collaboration marks a significant shift, as the two groups had previously been at odds.
200,000 Civilians Flee Akobo to Ethiopia Amid Violence
A retired Ethiopian general said at least 200,000 civilians have fled Akobo County of Jonglei State and crossed into neighbouring Ethiopia following recent clashes between government troops and opposition forces.
“The situation caused mass displacement, with reports stating that up to 200,000 people fled towards Ethiopia,” he said.
Gen. Teshome said many of those fleeing are women, children, and the elderly, travelling long distances on foot with few or no belongings.
He said the clashes broke out as SSPDF troops entered the area, with both sides claiming control and reports of back-and-forth engagements.
He said the violence caused widespread humanitarian disruption, including the looting of facilities and the suspension of aid.
“I will reiterate, territorial battles are not the way to resolve conflict, and I urge the parties to use the peaceful conflict resolution pathways set out in the agreement.”
