07/05/2025
SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. L*l Ruai Issues Brief Statement on Alleged Strategic Bombing Raids
Juba, South Sudan – May 7, 2025
The official spokesperson of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), Major General L*l Ruai Kong, issued a terse and provocative statement on his official page today, indicating that the military leadership has no official comment regarding reported strategic bombing raids in parts of Jonglei and Unity States.
The post, titled “For Immediate Release: No Comments on Strategic Bombing Raids,” has since sparked widespread public debate and concern. In his message, Maj. Gen. L*l stated:
“This brief statement serves to inform all media agencies that, as of now, SSPDF command has no comments to make on reported strategic bombing raids in Fangak and Mayom Counties of Jonglei and Unity States respectively. So technically it’s up to the civilians to conclude that the SSPDF has made it clear and justified their suffering by aerial bombardment and destruction of medical facilities and livestock of the people of Fangak and Mayom plus Nasir, Ulang and other Nuer areas. Stay tuned.”
The post, though brief, has raised eyebrows due to its ambiguous tone and apparent acknowledgment—albeit indirectly—of civilian suffering. It has led to speculation and confusion among both local and international observers as to whether the SSPDF is implicitly admitting to or distancing itself from the reported airstrikes.
Unconfirmed reports from civil society groups and community leaders allege that aerial bombardments in these areas have resulted in the destruction of medical facilities, displacement of civilians, and the loss of livestock—deepening the humanitarian crisis in regions already grappling with instability.
Human rights activists and international monitors have called for an independent investigation into the alleged bombings, stressing the need for accountability and the protection of civilians under international humanitarian law.
So far, there has been no official statement from the Ministry of Defense or the Office of the President clarifying the nature or authorization of any such military operations.
Maj. Gen. L*l’s post ends with the phrase “Stay tuned,” suggesting that more information may be forthcoming. In the meantime, public reaction remains divided, with some interpreting the statement as a veiled admission of military action, while others see it as a deflection meant to provoke discussion or mislead.
As the situation unfolds, pressure is mounting on the SSPDF to provide clarity and uphold its obligations to protect civilians in conflict-affected regions.