(Juba) – A new political alliance made up of several opposition groups in South Sudan has been officially launched, marking a significant development in the country’s political scene. The newly formed Coalition of South Sudan Opposition Movements (CSSOM) brings together various political and armed factions opposed to the current government in Juba.
The coalition was announced through a press release issued on Monday, with its leaders vowing to promote federal democracy and resist what they described as the growing authoritarianism and ethnic nationalism in the country’s leadership. According to the coalition, the aim is to address the deepening political and humanitarian crisis facing South Sudan.
General Dickson Gatluak Jock Nyuot, the spokesperson for CSSOM, said the alliance stands united behind a shared vision of political change. He described the coalition as a collective response to the failures of the current government, and a symbol of renewed determination among opposition forces to push for democratic transformation.
Speaking during the launch, General Gatluak stated, “The leadership of CSSOM reaffirms its resolute and unwavering commitment to federal democratic principles and the inalienable right to self determination for marginalized South Sudanese.” He described the movement as fighting for a “just and fair cause.”
The coalition criticised the government in Juba, accusing it of suppressing dissent, mismanaging the state, and contributing to widespread human rights abuses. CSSOM cited increased levels of civilian displacement, ongoing insecurity, and the deterioration of human dignity across the country.
“The people of South Sudan are enduring historic levels of injustice and displacement. We call for immediate and coordinated action to protect civilians, restore dignity, and uphold justice,” read the coalition’s statement.
CSSOM plans to coordinate its activities under a newly established Central Command (CENTCOM), which will be responsible for managing both political and military strategy during the transitional period. No detailed membership list has been released yet, but the group includes factions that have long remained critical of the 2018 peace agreement and its implementation.
The formation of this new opposition bloc comes at a time of heightened concern over South Sudan’s future. The 2018 peace agreement, which aimed to end years of conflict and bring about unity in government, has largely collapsed, with key provisions unfulfilled and trust between parties continuing to erode.
Rising ethnic tensions and accusations of political exclusion have further undermined stability. Many international and regional partners have voiced concern about the country’s direction and the humanitarian toll on the civilian population.
Jakony.com® will continue to follow developments surrounding the coalition and its impact on the broader political and humanitarian landscape in South Sudan.
