In a statement dated 17 March 2026, the presidency rejected concerns raised earlier by the churches, accusing the religious body of taking positions that could undermine judicial processes and blur the line between moral advocacy and political engagement.
“The Government of the Republic of South Sudan shares the concerns raised by South Sudan Council of Churches regarding political, security and humanitarian situation in the country,” the presidency said, insisting that authorities remain committed to “peace, stability and the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.”
The government defended ongoing military operations in Jonglei State, saying they were necessary responses to armed attacks rather than acts of aggression.
According to the statement, fighting erupted after elements of a splinter faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) allegedly attacked government positions.
“Between December 2025 and January 2026, armed elements… and its allied White Army launched unprovoked attacks on SSPDF strategic positions in Waat and Pajut and threatened to march to Juba,” the presidency said, adding that similar incidents were reported in Central and Western Equatoria and in the Ruweng Administrative Area.
The government said the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) responded in order to “prevent the spread of lawlessness and safeguard national security,” while also condemning violence against civilians and promising accountability for any crimes committed.
However, the presidency strongly criticized the churches’ demand for the release of political detainees, including Machar, arguing that such a move would interfere with legal proceedings.
“Criminal accountability is a judicial process that must proceed independently and without interference, regardless of an individual’s political status,” the statement said. “Releasing Dr. Riek Machar before court proceedings conclude sets precedents where judicial process and rule of law are undermined.”
The government further cautioned faith-based institutions against taking positions it said could appear partisan, noting that security operations, judicial matters and political negotiations remain the responsibility of the state.
In an earlier statement issued on 9 March 2026, church leaders painted a starkly different picture of the situation, warning that the renewed fighting in Jonglei risks plunging the country back into large-scale conflict.
“We are deeply worried about the escalation in violence, particularly in Jonglei State and elsewhere in our country, with intense fighting between government forces and opposition groups,” the SSCC said, adding that the clashes “threaten a return to full-scale civil war.”
The church leaders argued that military operations could worsen the humanitarian crisis and urged authorities to halt the offensive in Akobo County.
“Stop the ongoing military operation in Jonglei, especially the recent orders… to conduct what they refer to as the second phase of the operation in Akobo,” the statement said. “This will only increase human suffering and displacement.”
The council also called on the government to release political detainees and opponents, including Machar, saying such a move would help open space for genuine dialogue and national reconciliation.
“To lead the country towards stability… release all political opponents with whatever political charges, those in detention facilities and those undergoing court trials in Juba, including the suspended First Vice President Dr Riek Machar,” the churches urged.
Beyond the political dispute, the religious leaders also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation, noting that women, children and the elderly continue to bear the brunt of ongoing violence and economic hardship.
The SSCC further called for accountability over recent civilian killings, including those reported in Abiemnom County of the Ruweng Administrative Area, and urged international partners to continue supporting peace efforts in South Sudan.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between the government and influential religious leaders, who have historically played a major role in peace mediation in the country.
