This Week in South Sudan – May 1-11

Friday 1 May

• The South Sudanese government accepted the involvement of the Troika countries in the IGAD + negotiations.
• The SPLA claimed they have regained control of rebel-held areas in Nhial Diu Payam, south-west of Unity state’s capital, Bentiu. The SPLA (IO) dismissed the claims, saying they tactically withdrew from some areas to avoid harming the civil population.

Saturday 2 May

• The SPLA has allegedly withdrawn from the contested Samaha border area following recent clashes between the Sudanese army and rebel Justice and Equality Forces (JEM).

Sunday 3 May

• A small number of “privileged people close to the ruling circles” in South Sudan are reportedly benefiting from the country’s collapsing currency, the shortage of dollars and the difference between the official exchange rate and the street rate.
• Radio Tamazuj, War Economy: South Sudan border town recognizes Ethiopian birr as legal currency.

Monday 4 May

• South Sudanese security agents have withdrawn from the leader of Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement for Democratic Change (SPLM-DC) Lam Akol’s house, more than a week after it was besieged.
• According to South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Lueth, the government will detain and prosecute journalists who’s activities are considered to be against national security.
• The SPLA (IO) claim as many as 125 SPLA soldiers were killed, and 91 wounded during battles at Parieng, Lalop areas and in Unity state’s oil field territory.

Tuesday 5 May

• According to US Secretary of State, John Kerry, South Sudan’s future is “at grave risk of being squandered” because its leaders have failed to reach a lasting peace deal.

Wednesday 6 May

• NGO staff working in rebel-controlled parts of southern Unity State evacuated after the SPLA launched offensives from its northern stronghold Bentiu.
• *Radio Tamazuj “*Factbox: Estimated UNMISS troop strength.”
• The movements of UNMISS’ patrols to assess the severity of clashes near Bentiu “have been restricted by government forces on a number of occasions.”

Friday 8 May

• SPLA troops and mechanized forces loyal to GOSS have mobilized along the Jonglei frontline in Bor, Twic and Uror counties, according to a military source.
• According to the UN, the increased military activity in Unity state has displaced up to 100,000 people in just one week.

Sunday 10 May

• The governments of South Sudan and Ethiopia have agreedto close down routes being used by rebels to hinder rebel movement in border areas.

Monday 11 May

• Over 10 people were serious sly injured after recent clashes within the UN protection of civilians site in Juba.
• The Guardian, In Pictures: How conflict shapes life in local communities.