Jonglei State authorities have dismissed claims linking prominent Nuer spiritual leader Prophet Makuach Tut to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), describing a circulating threat letter attributed to him as fake.
The clarification follows the circulation of a letter on social media allegedly issued by Prophet Makuach, warning county authorities and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) to withdraw from Ayod County within 46 hours or face attacks in support of opposition forces.
Ayod County Commissioner James Chuol Jiek said the letter was not authored by Prophet Makuach and described it as misinformation intended to cause fear and confusion amid ongoing insecurity in parts of Jonglei State.“I spoke directly with Prophet Makuach by phone.
He made it clear that he is not aligned with SPLM-IO and is committed to peace,” Chuol said, adding that the Gawaar Nuer White Army in Ayod County has not joined the fighting.
The commissioner further identified a suspect, Yien Matiek, as the alleged author of the fake letter, confirming that the individual has been arrested.
He said the security situation in Ayod County remains calm, with SSPDF forces in control, except for Wau Payam where an old damaged military vehicle seen in a viral video had caused public alarm.
Jonglei State Governor Riek Gai Kok also dismissed the allegations, stating that Prophet Makuach and other Nuer spiritual leaders continue to support peace and stability in the state.
“Prophet Makuach is not part of SPLM-IO and has not mobilised youth against the government,” the governor said while speaking in Panyagoor town.
Meanwhile, Prophet Makuach’s cousin and spokesperson, Simon Dak, said the spiritual leader does not communicate through written letters and has not ordered any military action.
He added that Makuach recently conducted traditional rituals symbolising reconciliation and peaceful coexistence with the government.
Civil society activist Ter Manyang Gatwech urged authorities to maintain open dialogue with influential community figures, warning that misinformation could inflame tensions if left unaddressed.
The latest developments come amid heightened insecurity in Jonglei State, where clashes between government forces and SPLM-IO fighters have been reported in several areas, including Yuai and Waat towns.
In October 2025, Prophet Makuach called off a planned march toward Malakal in Upper Nile State and instead opted for dialogue with authorities, a move that helped ease tensions at the time.
