By: Ginaba Lino
The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism, CTSAMVM, says violence continued across parts of South Sudan in December 2025, with dozens of ceasefire violations recorded by its field teams.
In its latest monthly report, CTSAMVM says its Monitoring and Verification Teams documented 76 alleged violations of Chapter Two of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. The highest number was recorded by the Malakal team, which covers Upper Nile State and north-eastern Jonglei State, with 34 incidents.
The report shows a worrying rise in direct fighting between signatory parties. In December alone, 21 violations involved active hostilities, compared to very few incidents in December 2024. CTSAMVM says this confirms that the violence seen throughout much of 2025 is continuing.
Airstrikes were reported in several border counties between Upper Nile and Jonglei, especially in Ulang and Nasir. These bombings, allegedly carried out by SSPDF forces targeting armed youth, reportedly caused civilian deaths and displacement.
CTSAMVM says it is particularly concerned about clashes that began on December 23rd in Waat Payam, Nyirol County. Both the SSPDF and the SPLM/A-IO reported serious fighting. An SSPDF barracks was allegedly attacked by SPLM/A-IO forces, leading to combat deaths and the capture of weapons and equipment.
Multiple sources also told CTSAMVM that airstrikes were carried out on December 29th in parts of Lankien Town, causing civilian casualties.
According to the monitoring body, these incidents show that the Permanent Ceasefire is not holding in Upper Nile and Jonglei regions.
Despite the insecurity, CTSAMVM says its teams were able to move freely in December and completed two long-duration patrols. They carried out multi-day investigations in Raja County in Western Bahr el Ghazal and Tambura County in Western Equatoria.
In Raja, local SPLM-IG officials reported that on December 7th, an SSPDF soldier shot and killed a civilian. CTSAMVM says the suspect was arrested and is now awaiting trial, which reflects progress on accountability under the peace agreement.
CTSAMVM is urging all parties to respect the ceasefire, protect civilians, and uphold the peace deal.