Gatwech Lam Puoch, a prominent South Sudanese opposition lawmaker, was arrested by the National Security Service in Juba. His detention is linked to rising political tensions between factions supportive of President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Concerns about the stability of the 2018 peace agreement have intensified following this incident and recent violent clashes in Nasir.
Gatwech Lam Puoch, a prominent opposition lawmaker in South Sudan, was arrested in Juba on Tuesday afternoon. As a senior member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO), he represents Nasir County in the national Parliament. His detention was confirmed by various sources, stating that he was apprehended by the National Security Service (NSS) at his residence and is currently held at the notorious Blue House, an NSS detention center.
Puok Both Baluang, the press secretary for First Vice President Riek Machar, confirmed Mr. Gatwech’s arrest but refrained from providing additional details. Mr. Gatwech is a significant figure within the SPLM-IO, led by Mr. Machar, who serves as the first vice president under the 2018 power-sharing agreement. The arrest comes in response to increasing political tensions between forces backing President Salva Kiir and those loyal to Mr. Machar.
Recent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulted in multiple fatalities, including a commander from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). This escalation of violence has led to a government crackdown on Mr. Machar’s allies, including the detention of prominent officials like the petroleum minister. Mr. Gatwech’s arrest is reportedly connected to his political actions encouraging a suspension of military deployments to Nasir, advocating for community consultation prior to military interventions.
Concerns for the 2018 peace agreement’s stability have grown, as the agreement, which concluded a five-year civil conflict, established a unity government and outlined electoral pathways, has seen sluggish progress. In a related development, additional NSS security personnel have been deployed around First Vice President Riek Machar’s residence, with reports indicating the presence of approximately 42 officers. The rationale for this security increase remains unverified but may be associated with a recent burial of a commander killed during the Nasir clashes.
Mr. Gatwech Lam Puoch’s arrest highlights the escalating political tensions in South Sudan, particularly between opposing factions led by President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. This incident, alongside increased military security around Machar’s residence, raises concerns regarding the stability of the 2018 peace agreement. Vigilance regarding political dynamics and community rights in military deployment decisions remains critical as South Sudan navigates its tumultuous political landscape.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
