The White Army in South Sudan has denied links to the SPLA-in Opposition despite military actions against government forces in Nasir. Their statement emphasizes civilian protection against government abuses, as tensions rise in Juba with arrests of key political figures following the conflict.
The White Army, a prominent tribal militia in South Sudan, has denied any affiliations with the SPLA-in Opposition, led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, despite recent military actions in Nasir, Upper Nile State. This group engaged in combat with South Sudanese government forces (SSPDF), resulting in significant casualties and prisoners taken, ultimately claiming control of Nasir.
The conflict in Nasir has led to a tense atmosphere in Juba, as the government has accused the SPLA-IO of supporting the White Army’s military advances. South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei, presented evidence in the form of recordings that allegedly showed White Army members expressing support for SPLA-IO.
In response, the White Army issued a statement clarifying that they are not allied with the SPLA-IO or Dr. Riek Machar, emphasizing that their movement is focused on community protection rather than political engagement. They reject political affiliations, stating, “We are not a political movement—we are civilians, young men who have taken up arms to protect our people.”
The militia accused the national army of committing severe abuses against civilians, including violence and theft. They claimed their actions against the SSPDF were purely defensive, aimed at protecting the residents of Nasir County from repeated aggressions. The escalating conflict has heightened tensions in the capital, where the home of Machar has been surrounded by the military.
In the aftermath of these events, notable figures have been detained, including the SPLA-IO Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, along with the minister of petroleum, Puot Kang. These developments indicate increasing volatility in the region as the situation unfolds.
The denial of ties between the White Army and SPLA-IO highlights the complex dynamics of factionalism and ethnic allegiance in South Sudan. The militia’s assertion of their role as protectors rather than political actors illustrates the urgent need for effective governance to prevent further violence against civilians. Meanwhile, the arrests of high-ranking officials add to the tension in Juba, reinforcing the precarious security landscape of the country.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
