In a press statement seen by Sudans Post, Makuach said his decision was driven by growing insecurity in Akobo and what he called sustained political manipulation that has left civilians exposed.
He said his initial alignment with the opposition was motivated by the pursuit of peace, but that conditions on the ground had since shifted.
“I firmly believe that peace must reign in Akobo,” Makuach said, stressing that residents—particularly children—should be able to access basic services such as education and healthcare without disruption.
Makuach accused elements within SPLM-IO of holding the area “hostage” to political interests, linking the situation to the broader dynamics surrounding opposition leader Riek Machar. He suggested that divisions within the opposition movement had contributed to insecurity in Akobo, contrasting it with areas he said are relatively stable under other political actors.
He further alleged that as government forces advanced toward the area, some actors within SPLM-IO orchestrated the looting of public institutions, including the county hospital and facilities belonging to humanitarian organisations. He also claimed there were attempts to burn parts of the town on the assumption that civilians had already fled.
“These actions deliberately place the community in danger and create unnecessary suffering for innocent civilians,” he said.
The commissioner added that his push for peace had triggered internal tensions within the opposition ranks, including what he described as “humiliation and victimisation” by senior figures—conditions he said made it untenable for him to remain.
Makuach indicated that his defection may not be isolated. He said several local officials, chiefs, youth leaders, traders, and some military officers have either already joined him or are expected to follow once security conditions allow.
He urged displaced residents to return home, focus on rebuilding their livelihoods, and prepare for the upcoming agricultural season, while cautioning against political actors seeking to exploit the situation.
The defection signals a potential political shift in Jonglei State, where rivalry between government and opposition forces has fueled recurring instability. It comes as parts of the state continue to grapple with displacement, insecurity, and mounting humanitarian needs.
