Pathai, January 29, 2026
Civilians have continued to return to Pathai town and surrounding villages after calm was restored following the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces’ (SSPDF) successful takeover of the area, according to a statement released by the army spokesperson on the SSPDF’s official Facebook page.
The statement said the SSPDF leadership, under the overall command of Gen. Paul Nang Majok, PhD, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), welcomed and applauded the decision by Lou-Nuer civilians to return to their ancestral homes after responding to repeated appeals by the national army.
“The SSPDF leadership commends the courageous and bold decision taken by Lou-Nuer civilians to return to their homes in Pathai and neighboring villages following the restoration of security,” the spokesperson said. “This decision reflects growing public confidence in the ability of the national army to protect civilians and maintain peace.”
On Thursday, January 29, several hundred civilians, accompanied by traditional chiefs and community elders, gathered at Pathai town centre, where they were warmly received by senior SSPDF officers, including Maj. Gen. Michael Makal Kuol and Dominic Deng. The meeting, according to the army, was aimed at reassuring residents and encouraging reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
The civilians’ return was praised by the army generals who commanded SSPDF troops during the decisive battle that resulted in the army taking full control of Pathai town. The SSPDF said the operation marked a turning point in restoring law and order in the area and creating conditions for displaced residents to safely return home.
The army leadership reassured the local population of the government’s determination to provide sustained security, protect civilians, and ensure unhindered access to humanitarian assistance and essential services. The spokesperson said relevant authorities are working with humanitarian partners to support the returning population.
“The SSPDF remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of civilians and to facilitating the delivery of humanitarian services so that normal life can fully resume,” the statement added.
Local authorities described the return of civilians as a significant step toward recovery and stability, noting that the presence of traditional leaders alongside returning families demonstrated community support for peace and dialogue.
Pathai town and surrounding villages had experienced displacement of civilians following periods of insecurity and armed confrontation. After recent military operations, the SSPDF announced it had taken full control of the area and called on displaced communities to return home. The government has since emphasized the importance of restoring security, rebuilding trust between civilians and security forces, and ensuring access to humanitarian assistance as part of broader efforts to stabilize conflict-affected areas.
