Bor, Leaders of the Red Belt coalition in Bor issued a statement clarifying the group’s position after recent accusations that it operates as a rebel force, saying its mission is strictly community defense, Oct. 2, 2025.

The coalition, established in Jonglei State, described itself as a protection force created to safeguard civilians and property against violence and instability, particularly raids and child abductions by Murle armed groups. The group emphasised its commitment to peace, unity, and development under the leadership of President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

“The Red Belt is not against the government,” the statement read. “The incident on Saturday was a misunderstanding that was twisted and used for political defamation.”

According to the coalition, the National Security Service was misled by Murle and Nuer political leaders, resulting in an attack on a tea place wrongly suspected of being a Red Belt base. A soldier from Division 8 was mistakenly killed in the incident.
The Red Belt reiterated that it has not declared war against the government or the citizens of Bor. It accused political rivals of waging a defamation campaign to weaken the group and allow Murle youth to continue raiding cattle and abducting children.
The coalition contrasted itself with other armed groups, such as the Murle’s Cobra faction, which it said committed atrocities against civilians and soldiers. It also warned the government not to pressure the Bor community into rebellion, calling itself a wise and educated people who support peace.

Recalling a speech by Kiir at the funeral of victims in Twic East County, the group likened its stance to a man turning on a lion once reminded of the weapons in his hand. The statement concluded with a pledge to secure strategic areas of Jonglei State to prevent rebel infiltration and lawlessness.