Tensions in South Sudan have escalated as security forces surrounded Riek Machar’s residence following the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO condemned these actions, viewing them as violations of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and threats to peace efforts. The opposition has called for a withdrawal of forces and a demand for international intervention to prevent further conflict.
Tensions are escalating in South Sudan as heavy security forces have surrounded the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar. This development follows the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam, the acting chief of staff of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The opposition faction has condemned the military presence as a violation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, stating that it poses a threat to peace efforts in the nation.
In a strong statement, the SPLA-IO expressed serious concern regarding the military buildup near Machar’s home, viewing it as an act of provocation. They stated, “We are also gravely concerned about the heavy deployment of SSPDF around the residence of Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon…”. The SPLA-IO believes that such actions could undermine trust among peace partners, particularly affecting attempts to reduce ongoing violence in Upper Nile State.
The SPLA-IO also condemned the detention of General Duop Lam, accusing SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces, General Paul Nang, of directly violating the 2018 peace agreement with this action. They asserted that his arrest jeopardizes the Joint Defence Board, a crucial component for coordinating South Sudan’s unified command structure. Their statement highlighted, “This action violates the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS)…”.
In light of these developments, the SPLA-IO has called for the immediate withdrawal of government forces around Machar’s residence and demands the unconditional release of General Duop Lam. They also urged international guarantors of the peace agreement to step in to prevent further escalation of conflict. Their statement included, “We take this opportunity to call upon the guarantors of the Agreement and international partners to intervene…”.
The SPLA-IO reaffirmed its commitment to the peace agreement, emphasizing that dialogue should guide South Sudan’s fragile transition rather than the use of force. They concluded their statement by expressing dedication to implementing the agreement fully. As of late Tuesday, there was no official response from the South Sudanese government regarding these security actions or the detention of General Duop Lam, leaving the situation poised for further escalation in the coming days.
In summary, the situation in South Sudan is marked by rising tensions due to the military presence around Riek Machar’s residence and the detention of General Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO has condemned these actions as violations of the 2018 peace agreement and called for the immediate withdrawal of security forces and the release of General Lam. The ongoing conflict and instability in Upper Nile State highlight the fragile peace efforts, underscoring the need for international intervention and dialogue.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
