Tensions have surged in South Sudan as security forces surround Riek Machar’s residence following the arrest of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO denounces these actions as violations of the 2018 peace agreement, demanding troop withdrawal and Lam’s release while calling for international intervention to avert further conflict.
Tensions are escalating in South Sudan as security forces have encircled the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar. This development follows the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam, who is the acting chief of staff for the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). Machar’s faction has condemned this action, deeming it a significant violation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and a jeopardy to ongoing peace initiatives.
In a strongly worded statement, the SPLA-IO articulated its deep concern regarding the military presence surrounding Machar’s home. They characterized the security deployment as a provocative act that undermines trust among peace partners and hampers efforts to diffuse ongoing violence in Upper Nile State. The SPLA-IO stressed that these actions threaten the fragile peace process.
The SPLA-IO also criticized the arrest of General Duop Lam, asserting that it was orchestrated by General Paul Nang, the Chief of Defence Forces of the SSPDF. They claim this detention infringes upon the 2018 peace deal and undermines the functioning of the Joint Defence Board, which is essential for establishing a unified command structure.
In response, the SPLA-IO has demanded the immediate withdrawal of government troops from Machar’s vicinity and the unconditional release of General Duop Lam. They have called upon the international community to intervene before the situation deteriorates into a broader conflict. The faction emphasized its commitment to a peaceful implementation of the agreement and insisted that dialogue, not force, should guide South Sudan’s transition.
As of the latest reports, there has been no immediate response from the South Sudanese government or the SSPDF regarding the military deployment or General Duop Lam’s detention. The tense standoff continues, raising concerns over potential escalation in the coming days.
In conclusion, the situation in South Sudan remains precarious as the SPLA-IO condemns the military buildup around Riek Machar’s residence and seeks the release of General Duop Lam. The opposition faction underscores the need for international intervention to maintain peace and emphasizes the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. Immediate action is crucial to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
