Security forces have surrounded Riek Machar’s residence in South Sudan, raising tensions after the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO condemns this as a violation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, jeopardizing peace efforts. They demand the withdrawal of security forces and the release of General Lam while urging international intervention to prevent further conflict.
Tensions are escalating in South Sudan, with security forces surrounding Riek Machar’s residence, which the opposition deems a breach of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and a threat to peace efforts. This military buildup follows the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam, acting chief of staff of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The SPLA-IO has expressed grave concern over the increasing presence of security forces, labeling it an act of provocation that undermines trust amongst peace partners and complicates de-escalation efforts in Upper Nile State.
The SPLA-IO reported that the military actions violate the trust essential to the peace process. They believe that the heavy deployment of South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) around Machar’s residence jeopardizes the ongoing efforts to lower tensions following recent violence in Upper Nile State. SPLA-IO spokesman, Pal Mai Deng, underscored the detrimental effects of these actions on the already fragile peace climate.
Additionally, the SPLA-IO decried the arrest of General Duop Lam, accusing SSPDF Chief General Paul Nang of orchestrating the act as a direct infringement on the 2018 peace agreement. Lam, holding essential roles in both the SSPDF and the Joint Defence Board, is viewed as critical for the command structure’s stability. The SPLA-IO maintains that such actions significantly threaten the integrity of the resolution framework this agreement provides.
The opposition faction has called for an immediate withdrawal of military forces surrounding Machar’s residence and demanded the unconditional release of General Lam. They urge international stakeholders of the peace agreement to take proactive measures to prevent further escalation. The SPLA-IO emphasized the shared responsibility of all parties to alleviate violence and restore dialogue as the guiding principle for South Sudan’s transition to peace.
As the situation continues to develop, there has been no immediate response from the South Sudanese government or the SSPDF regarding the events surrounding General Lam or the increased military presence. The gravity of this standoff raises concerns about the potential for further escalation, as key players maintain that dialogue must prevail over violence during this critical period of South Sudan’s peace journey.
The situation in South Sudan is becoming increasingly tense following the deployment of security forces near Riek Machar’s residence and the arrest of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO has condemned these actions as violations of the peace agreement and demands their reversal. International intervention has been urged to prevent conflict escalation. The SPLA-IO remains committed to the peace process, advocating for dialogue to resolve tensions.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
