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By Miyong Kuon

At a time when the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) hangs in uncertainty, questions are growing louder about whether peace is still achievable, or already slipping away. With reports of renewed violence and stalled security arrangements, understanding the perspective of those at the center of the opposition has never been more urgent.

In this exclusive Q&A, the spokesperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) speaks candidly about the widening gap between official peace efforts and realities on the ground. His responses reveal not only frustration with the current political climate in Juba, but also a deeply personal commitment to what he describes as a long and unfinished mission.

Q: The R-ARCSS implementation is stalled, and the transitional period feels like a “ghost.” How is your current project navigating the risk of a return to active hostilities among rank-and-file forces?

A: “While the SPLM-IO continues to work toward implementing peace, the regime in Juba has already plunged the country back into war by attacking our positions in cantonment areas across the country.” They are the one who are turning as back to war and we have no choice but to fight back to force them back to implementation of the  R-ARCSS or forced them out of the power.

Q: The SPLM-IO’s vision often hits the wall of political reality in Juba. What new direction are you taking to ensure your mission does not become another casualty of the status quo?

A: “Our mission has always been to bring lasting peace to the country, so the people of South Sudan can live in security and build a nation blessed with vast resources.” We have a mission to take back our country using any mean possible.

Q: Critics argue that the political process is detached from realities on the ground. What is one tactical goal you are betting your reputation on achieving in the next 90 days?

A: “I will not disclose our plans and tactics. But what I can say is that the regime in Juba does not understand peaceful negotiation. Defeating them on the battlefield may be the last resort the country has right now.”

Q: What is the most significant internal obstacle to your mission, something you feel the international community often overlooks?

A: “Our main obstacle is stopping the regime from killing and displacing the people of South Sudan. This is not something that needs to be sanitized. What is happening in places like Akobo and across the country should be covered worldwide.”

Q: In a city defined by political tension and uncertainty, what keeps you personally committed to this struggle?

A: “Achieving freedom for the people of South Sudan is what keeps me going until victory is achieved.”

Q: What is the most misunderstood aspect of the ‘IO’ identity?

A: “Many believe the SPLA-IO is driven by revenge, especially since most of our members come from the Nuer community, which suffered greatly during the 2013 violence in Juba. But our mission is not revenge, it is to change the regime and save all South Sudanese.”

Q: If you were to leave political life tomorrow, what would you do that still serves your country?

A: “No one will force me out before our mission is achieved. But when victory comes, I will return to civilian life and farm my land in our great country.”