Commissioner Stephen Taker of Leer County in Unity State, South Sudan, has appealed to the residents of Leer to cease killing each other over the leadership dispute within the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO). The dispute is between rival factions loyal to Nathaniel Oyet and Regina Joseph Kaba. Taker described the power struggle as not worth the loss of lives and encouraged the rival groups to resolve their differences through dialogue.
The leadership dispute in SPLM-IO intensified after Regina Joseph Kaba was appointed acting chairperson in August 2026, causing a split in the movement between her supporters and those loyal to Oyet. Oyet had been serving as acting leader following the detention of SPLM-IO leader Dr. Riek Machar in March 2025. The rivalry has led to armed confrontations between the factions, including clashes in Rupkong and Bow payams on October 14 and Adok Payam on October 30.
The clashes have resulted in casualties and injuries, with at least five soldiers killed and nine others injured in Adok Payam. The two sides have blamed each other for initiating the fighting. The violence has disrupted civilian activities, including the postponement of examinations for about 2,000 pupils in 23 primary schools in Leer County until November 9 due to insecurity linked to the factional clashes.
Commissioner Taker made his remarks on Sunday at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Leer County during the celebration of the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. He reminded the congregation that they belong to one community and should remain united despite their political differences. Taker's appeal is aimed at promoting peace and unity in the county amid growing concerns about the impact of the internal power struggle on security and access to essential services.
The fighting in Leer County has raised concerns about the stability of the region and the well-being of its residents. The county has been affected by the internal power struggle within SPLM-IO, which has led to a deterioration in security and community relations. Commissioner Taker's call for peace is seen as a crucial step towards resolving the conflict and restoring stability in the county.
The SPLM-IO leadership dispute is a significant challenge to the peace and stability of South Sudan, particularly in Unity State. The rivalry between Oyet and Kaba has created divisions within the movement and has led to violence in Leer County. Efforts to resolve the dispute through dialogue are essential to preventing further conflict and promoting national unity.
Commissioner Taker's appeal for peace in Leer County highlights the need for a peaceful resolution to the SPLM-IO leadership dispute. The residents of Leer County are urged to prioritize their unity and safety over political differences. The situation in Leer County remains a concern for humanitarian organizations and peace stakeholders, who are advocating for a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- Commissioner Stephen Taker urges residents of Leer County to stop killing each other over the SPLM-IO leadership dispute between Nathaniel Oyet and Regina Joseph Kaba.
