Gatwech Lam Puoch, a South Sudanese opposition MP, was arrested by the NSS in Juba and is being held at the Blue House. His detention is linked to political unrest and opposition to military deployments in his region. The situation contributes to growing tensions between President Kiir’s and Vice President Machar’s factions, raising concerns over the stability of the 2018 peace agreement.
Gatwech Lam Puoch, a prominent lawmaker from South Sudan’s opposition, was apprehended on Tuesday in Juba. He serves as a senior member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO) and represents Nasir County in Parliament. His arrest by the National Security Service (NSS) occurred at his residence in the Thonypiny neighborhood, and he is currently detained at the Blue House, an NSS facility known for its harsh conditions.
Puok Both Baluang, the press secretary for First Vice President Riek Machar, acknowledged the arrest but did not disclose further information. Mr. Gatwech plays a significant role in the SPLM-IO, a political party led by Mr. Machar, who is the first vice president following the 2018 power-sharing agreement.
This arrest occurs amid increasing tensions between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and those supporting Mr. Machar. Recent violent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulted in multiple fatalities, including a commander from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). In response, President Kiir’s government has intensified efforts against Mr. Machar’s allies, leading to various detentions, including that of the petroleum minister.
Mr. Gatwech’s imprisonment is seemingly connected to his recent calls for the suspension of SSPDF deployments to Nasir county, arguing for local consultations prior to military interventions. These escalating tensions threaten the ongoing stability of the 2018 peace agreement that marked the end of a long-standing civil conflict.
In a related note, heightened security measures have been implemented around Riek Machar’s residence, with approximately 42 NSS personnel deployed. The reason for this increased security remains ambiguous; some speculate it pertains to the burial of Majur Dak, an SSPDF commander killed in the aforementioned clashes, though no official explanation has been offered.
Gatwech Lam Puoch’s arrest highlights the escalating political tensions in South Sudan, especially between the factions of President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. His detention, along with increased security around Machar’s residence, signals significant instability that may jeopardize the 2018 peace agreement. The situation warrants close attention as further developments unfold in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
