The group was led by Brigadier General Taban Daniel Dominic, the former operations commander of the SPLA-IO’s Anya-Nya Division, Sector 9, who was joined by eight other officers and enlisted soldiers.
At a press briefing in Magwi, Gen. Taban accused the SPLA-IO leadership of being fragmented and self-serving. He said the movement had been reduced to advancing the personal interests of its leader, Dr. Riek Machar, who is currently under trial for treason and murder charges.
“This personalization of leadership has created internal rivalry, leading to multiple splits that weakened the unity of the movement,” Mr. Taban said. He claimed the leadership was more concerned with “self-preservation and personal gain” than with the welfare of its forces in Magwi.
Magwi County Commissioner Pole Pole Benjamin welcomed the defectors, calling their move a positive gesture for peace.
“We appreciate your decision to come back to the system. Together we can work for peace and stability,” he said.
Brigadier General Kulang Tarik Chuol Koda, a senior SSPDF commander, assured the group of full integration into the national army. He urged them to remain committed to peace and avoid returning to the bush, adding that they would soon be given official assignments.
The SPLA-IO, however, dismissed the reports of nine defections. Deputy spokesperson Colonel Paul Lam Gabriel said only two officers—Brig. Gen. Taban Daniel and Col. Otema Luka Apire—had switched sides.
The defections come as the SPLA-IO faces persistent internal divisions, raising questions about its cohesion at a time when South Sudan is under pressure to prepare for delayed national elections.
The development also follows a deadly assault on a National Security Service (NSS) base in Kapoeta South County, part of Eastern Equatoria State.
On September 25, armed men stormed the base, killing five NSS personnel and injuring nine others. The SPLA-IO claimed responsibility, saying the attack was in retaliation for alleged abuses committed by state security forces.
