JUBA, South Sudan — October 15, 2025: South Sudan’s leading humanitarian and governance watchdog, the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), is sounding the alarm over South Sudan’s rapidly deteriorating political situation, warning that the nation stands on the brink of sliding back into deadly armed conflict.The warning follows the commencement of the trial of Dr. Riek Machar, First Vice President and leader of the SPLM/A–In Opposition focused on the March 2025 violence in Nasir. CEPO’s early warning systems indicate that the proceedings have shattered public trust in the fragile political transition and are emboldening armed groups that were not signatories to the 2018 peace agreement — creating dangerous momentum toward renewed war.
“South Sudan’s leaders continue to believe that political differences can be solved through military means — a mindset that is destructive, short-sighted, and deeply dangerous,” said Mr. Edmund Yakani, CEPO’s Executive Director.“This approach drives the nation toward crimes against humanity and a catastrophic humanitarian collapse. The only viable path forward is inclusive political dialogue that puts the lives and dignity of South Sudanese citizens first.”
CEPO expressed alarm that, while the government finds resources to purchase weapons and fund military operations, civil servants have gone unpaid for more than a year, and key sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture are starved of funds. Meanwhile, devastating floods, climate shocks, and insecurity have crippled food production, pushing millions toward hunger and desperation.
“It is profoundly disturbing to see South Sudan’s leadership prioritize military spending over its people,” Yakani added.“Citizens should not continue paying the price — with their lives, livelihoods, and futures — for the political failures of their leaders.”
CEPO is urgently calling on all parties — including regional and international stakeholders — to press South Sudan’s leaders to return to an inclusive political process and halt the drift toward violence.
The organization warns that if current trends continue, the nation could soon face its worst humanitarian crisis since independence.
“Our early warning systems are flashing red,” Yakani said.“Unless immediate action is taken, South Sudan risks plunging back into a nightmare of war, displacement, and suffering. The time to act is now.”
CEPO calls on the African Union, IGAD, the United Nations, and donor partners to redouble diplomatic efforts and use their collective influence to keep South Sudan’s leaders at the negotiating table. The organization urges the international community to speak with one voice in defense of peace — supporting mediation, accountability, and protection of civilians before it is too late.
About CEPO
The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) is South Sudan’s foremost civil society voice for peace, human rights, and democratic governance. CEPO works nationwide to strengthen citizen participation, prevent violence, and build accountability among political leaders — advocating tirelessly for a peaceful and just South Sudan.
Media Contact:Edmund YakaniDirector, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO)
Juba, South Sudan
Email: info@cepo-southsudan.org | Phone: +211 (0) 924 515 009ceposouthsudan@gmail.com

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