Authorities in Central Equatoria State have declared that Panyume, located in Morobo County, stays firmly under the authority of government security forces.
This statement counters assertions from the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), which reported seizing the area following early Tuesday clashes.
The declaration came via an official statement from the office of Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony, released after he presided over a regular meeting of the State Security Committee on Tuesday, January 20, 2025.
The session addressed reports of a dawn assault carried out by SPLA-IO-affiliated forces. The SPLA-IO had previously announced it had taken control of Panyume through the offensive.
Nevertheless, the State Security Committee reported that the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) successfully reestablished authority over the location.
Officials called on local residents to stay calm while the situation remains under active observation.
In addition, the committee decided to ramp up actions to eliminate unauthorized checkpoints throughout the state. They also emphasized closer oversight of cattle herders’ movements to reduce tensions and conflicts between farmers and pastoralists.
Security agencies received directives to maintain pressure on criminal groups active in key urban areas, such as Juba and Yei River Counties.
Separately, the Mayor of Juba City Council and the Commissioner of Juba County were assigned to restructure local markets, clear obstructed roads, and advance ongoing cleanliness initiatives.
These steps aim to modernize Juba according to global benchmarks.
Furthermore, the Juba County Commissioner—working alongside the State Ministry of Housing, Land and Public Utilities—was instructed to properly execute land distribution procedures.
This includes guiding rightful owners to their allocated plots as part of broader efforts to tackle ongoing land-grabbing issues.
The meeting wrapped up with a firm call to the public: ignore what the committee labeled as misleading propaganda from elements opposed to peace.
Residents were encouraged to stay composed and resume their everyday routines without disruption.
