JUBA, South Sudan, March 26, 2025 – Residents of Juba are expressing deep concern over escalating tensions in South Sudan following recent airstrikes in Nasir and Ulang counties in Upper Nile State by the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the bombing of the SPLA-IO cantonment site in Wunliet, west of Juba.
Taban Emmanuel, a resident of Munuki Block B, warned that the growing military presence and inflammatory social media activity suggest the nation is nearing renewed conflict. “As a citizen of Juba, I am terrified,” he said. “The signs are clear that anything could happen at any time.” He urged leaders to take urgent action to prevent further escalation.
Sebit Anthony, a resident of Jebel Timan, noted that social media posts spreading hate speech have amplified fears. “The situation seems normal on the surface, but social media is full of negative and divisive content,” he said. Sebit also criticised the heavy military deployment in Juba, which he said unsettles residents, especially those unfamiliar with such heightened security.
SSPDF spokesperson Gen. Ruai on Monday accused the SPLA-IO, led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, of provocations that led to the bombing in Wunliet.
Another resident, identified only as Night, shared her apprehension. “The situation is tense, and rumors of potential violence make everyone anxious,” she said.
In light of the mounting tensions, Ter Manyang, executive director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), called on President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Machar to prioritize dialogue over military solutions. “South Sudan cannot afford a return to full-scale war,” he said. “This is not the country we want. We need good governance, the rule of law, and peace.”
Ter emphasized that generations of South Sudanese have grown up amid conflict, and the cycle must end. “We need to build a nation where future generations can thrive without fear of war,” he said.
When contacted, South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) Deputy Spokesperson Maj. Lith Wilson Simon said the police had no updated information on the current security situation.
