Gatwech Lam Puoch, a prominent opposition MP in South Sudan, was arrested by the National Security Service in Juba and is being held at the Blue House. His arrest is linked to recent political calls against military deployments in local areas, raising concerns over the stability of the 2018 peace agreement amid increasing tensions between rival political factions.
Gatwech Lam Puoch, a notable opposition lawmaker in South Sudan, was arrested in Juba on Tuesday afternoon, according to various sources. Mr. Gatwech, affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO) and representing Nasir County, was taken from his Thonypiny residence by the National Security Service (NSS) and is currently detained at the Blue House, a well-known NSS facility.
The press secretary for First Vice President Riek Machar, Puok Both Baluang, confirmed the arrest but withheld further details. Mr. Gatwech is a prominent member of the SPLM-IO, the political party led by Mr. Machar, who is recognized as the nation’s first vice president as per the 2018 power-sharing agreement.
This arrest occurs during a time of escalating political tensions between President Salva Kiir’s supporters and those loyal to Mr. Machar. Recently, violent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulted in several fatalities, including that of an SSPDF commander. In response, President Kiir’s administration has initiated a crackdown on Mr. Machar’s allies, which has included the detention of senior officials such as the petroleum minister.
Mr. Gatwech’s detention is likely connected to his recent political actions, particularly a call he made on February 20 to suspend SSPDF deployments to Nasir, emphasizing the necessity of consulting local communities before any military mobilization. This situation has caused concerns regarding the stability of the 2018 peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil war, aiming for a unity government and electoral processes, despite slow advancements.
In additional developments, enhanced security measures have been observed around the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar, with approximately 42 NSS personnel deployed this morning. The motive behind this security increase remains ambiguous; although, some sources speculate that it is related to the funeral of Majur Dak, an SSPDF commander killed during the recent clashes, yet no official clarification has been issued.
The arrest of Gatwech Lam Puoch signifies deepening political tumult in South Sudan, particularly amidst ongoing tensions between factions supporting President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. With potential implications on the fragile 2018 peace agreement, the situation remains precarious as further crackdowns on opposition figures unfold. Monitoring developments will be essential as the nation navigates its complex political landscape.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
