Gen. Akech Tong Aleu, ISB Director General must be applauded for reach agreement with kitgwang faction

Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual (File Photo)

By Zechariah Makuach Maror

The recent news coming from Port-Sudan, the new capital of Sudan, about a significant agreement between the new Spy Chief, General Akech Tong Aleu, representing the government of South Sudan and the SPLM-IO Kitgwang Rebellion led by Gen Gatwech Dual, brings a sense of hope to the people of South Sudan, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict in the Upper Nile Region and elsewhere. This development, confirmed by General Gatwech Dual of the Kitgwang faction during an interview with Radio Tamzuj on 05. February. 2025, marks a potential turning point in the quest for peace in a country long plagued by violence and instability. 

Since Dr. Riek Machar's dramatic departure from Juba in December 2013, South Sudan has been embroiled into cycle of violence, severely undermining any hopes for lasting peace. The situation worsened significantly when internal political clashes erupted between factions of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), leading to violent confrontations that left a troubling legacy of disarray and suffering for almost 12 years. Despite the signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (ARCSS) in 2018, which saw Dr. Machar return as First Vice President, the country has continued to experience unrest owing to militia groups operating within the periphery of territory of the state. 

Though there are countless rebellions in the country, including some unarmed online rebel engaging in Tumaini Initiative in Nairobi, Kenya, the two most notable rebel groups with impact on the battlefield are SPLM-IO Kitgwang faction and South Sudan Salvation Front duped as NAS. The Kitgwang group has emerged as a leading force that opposed the most Warlord Dr Riek Machar after signing 2018 ARCSS, albeit challenging the authority of the government and posing significant threats to both existing peace frameworks and civilian safety. 

The Kitgwang Rebellion serves as a prime example of the complexities that arise in a conflict-ridden environment as it broke away from SPLM-IO mainstream of Dr. Riek Machar two and half years ago, citing familial politics within the movement. Initial discontent of the rebellion often stems from grievances related to governance, allocation of resources, and ethnic division and on the top of that the failure of the parties to the ARCSS to addressing root causes of 2013 conflict. However, the Kitgwang forces have taken the notion of rebellion to another level by rebelling within rebellion and establishing a notable structure that allows them to function effectively in the bush for the last two and half years. 

Though underestimated, the capabilities of the SPLM-IO Kitgwang militia are stark. They possess a significant level of manpower from local Nuer vigilantes known as White Army, allowing them to maintain their operations and to engage in prolonged confrontation with government forces and other rebel groups included unabsorbed SPLM-IO rebels of Dr. Riek Machar, which are yet, for known or unknown reasons, reported to the cantonment sites. This strength Kitgwang in numbers mirrors the traditional military forces, revealing that their organizational framework draws from a calculated approach aimed at sustaining resistance. Furthermore, the militia's logistical capabilities ensure a steady flow of resources necessary for survival, which includes the procurement and smuggling of weapons and supplies at the wider border-crossing between Sudan and South Sudan. 

Financial support from abroad further complicates the scenario. Such backing enables these militias not only to persist but also to innovate in their tactics and strategies. The presence of external sources of funding, whether from sympathetic groups or entities interested in destabilizing the current government, has become a critical lifeline for the militia and has actively fueled the ongoing violence. 

The agreement between General Akech and General Dual indicates a commitment to ending years of destruction that have devastated communities and displaced countless families in Upper Nile Region. Such dialogue is crucial in a nation where many have suffered the consequences of prolonged conflict, including loss of life, infrastructure damage, and the disruption of essential services. Peace negotiations like this demonstrate that leaders can come together to address deep-rooted issues, paving the way for constructive conversations that can lead to lasting change. 

General Dual's optimism during the interview is noteworthy. His trust in the process suggests a willingness to move forward and engage in meaningful discussions that prioritize the well-being of the citizens of South Sudan. Unlike the Vultures on the table of Tumaini Initiative in Nairobi, Akech-Dual's perspectives are essential for fostering hope among the communities that have lived through years of turmoil. It is vital that South Sudan's leaders continue to build on this momentum and consider the perspectives of the people they represent, ensuring that any peace agreement takes into account the needs and aspirations of all citizens rather than distribution of government seats. 

Furthermore, General Akech's leadership is critical in this process as he has engineered the process behind the scene until he surprised the people of South Sudan with peace at the golden plate, what a leadership! He has proven to us that maintaining national security, as a Spy Chief, is not only to gather intelligence, and lead the combat in the battlefield but also to work towards a peaceful resolution of conflicts and that was exactly the advice given to him by Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial during his swearing in ceremony five months ago. His ability to collaborate with various factions illustrates his commitment to unity and reconciliation. The citizens of South Sudan look to him and President Salva Kiir Mayardit to provide a clear vision and mission that can guide the nation towards stability and prosperity, the last thing citizens are looking for is making peace agreement with National Salvation Front led by Thomas Chrillo Sawka. 

To be more inclusive in my argument, the quest for peace in South Sudan is a journey that requires the collective effort of both the government and its citizens. While government initiatives are essential in establishing frameworks for peace, true and lasting peace can only be achieved when all citizens actively participate in the process. It is imperative to emphasize that peace is not solely the responsibility of leaders, but a shared duty that involves everyone. Without the will and engagement of the citizens, any governmental efforts may fall short.

South Sudan has faced numerous conflicts since its independence in 2011, resulting in loss, suffering, and disillusionment among its people. The internal strife has displaced millions and shattered the hopes of countless families, some of our citizens who ran to neighboring countries for safety are being slaughtered on the streets like goats. This environment of despair calls for a regeneration of hope, through which citizens can begin to envision a future of coexistence and stability. Citizens must recognize that, despite past grievances and divisions, the effort to rebuild the nation is a collaborative endeavor that transcends individual differences. 

Finally, the reaching of an agreement between General Akech Tong Aleu and the SPLM-IO Kitgwang Rebellion presents an opportunity for South Sudan to move away from violence and towards a future of peace. The optimism expressed by General Dual is a beacon of hope, signifying trust in the peace-building process. For the citizens of South Sudan, leaders like General Akech and President Kiir must avoid listening to ill-whispering advisors and embodying a commitment to providing safety, stability, and a brighter future. Their actions in the coming months will be vital in molding the country’s path towards lasting peace and recovery from years of conflict as the country is preparing for elections next year or years to come. 

We need peace! 

The writer is an Activist and can be reached via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.