At least 700 members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), led by suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, defected last week to President Salva Kiir’s SPLM party in Unity State capital, Bentiu.

Unity State is Dr. Machar’s home region and a traditional stronghold for the SPLM-IO.

James Clement Juol, the Rubkona County commissioner who spearheaded the defection, announced full allegiance to the ruling SPLM, describing it as the “center for hope, peace, and development” for South Sudanese.

“My comrades and I declared to join the mighty SPLM under Unity State Governor Comrade Riek Bim Top and the Chairman, Gen. Comrade Salva Kiir Mayardit,” Juol stated.

“Our defection came after we decided to join the SPLM Party. We have no problem with SPLM-IO, but we just decided to join the SPLM in government (IG).”

Responding to the move, Unity State Deputy Governor Tor Tungwar—who also serves as SPLM-IO chairperson in the state—confirmed awareness of the defections and expressed a measured reaction.

“We are aware of the decision that was made by some SPLM-IO members led by the commissioner of Rubkona County, who have defected and aligned with SPLM-IG,” Tungwar said.

“While we are disappointed to see them leaving, we respect their freedom of association and choice to seek a new political direction.”

He downplayed the impact, insisting the departures would not weaken the opposition movement.

“However, the departure of a few individuals does not shake the foundation of our movement; in fact, this allows us to unite under a clearer and more dedicated vision,” Tungwar added.

“While some of our members may prioritize personal ambitions over party loyalty, the vast majority remain committed to the party’s principles.”

The deputy governor noted growing grassroots enthusiasm within the SPLM-IO following the defections.

“We are already seeing renewed energy and support from our grassroots, and we are confident in our path forward,” he said.

“We thank them for their service to our party, SPLM-IO, and we wish them well in their future endeavors.”

The defections occur amid heightened political tensions in South Sudan, including the ongoing high-profile trial of Dr. Machar and co-accused over the March 2025 Nasir garrison attack, renewed fighting in Jonglei and other regions, and preparations for delayed national elections.

Unity State has long been a politically sensitive area due to its oil resources, ethnic dynamics, and historical ties to both Kiir and Machar.