Tensions in Juba rise after the arrest of senior SPLM-IO military officers linked to recent conflicts. The situation is described as tense, affecting relations between armed forces and communities. A peace advocate urges President Kiir to release the officers, warning of implications for South Sudan’s stability.
Tensions have significantly increased in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, following the arrest of four high-ranking military officers from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). These arrests occurred at the army headquarters, as disclosed by a senior SPLM-IO member, who remained anonymous. The detained individuals include Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, the Deputy Chief of the Defense Forces for Operations, Lt. Gen. Wesley Welebe, among others, in relation to recent conflicts in Upper Nile State.
The anonymous source characterized the atmosphere as “tense,” despite an SPLM-IO leadership meeting in Juba aimed at addressing the ongoing unrest, particularly in Nasir County. Additionally, there are broader tensions in areas with SPLM-IO forces, including Abyei, Twic, Eastern Equatoria, Jonglei, and Nasir, where prolonged stationing of armed forces has exacerbated community relations.
The official elaborated on the discord, stating, “There are conflicts and problems between the residents and the forces. Sometimes, they fight at home.” This discord is attributed to the lack of integration between the armed personnel and local communities, leading to persistent misunderstandings and confrontations.
In light of the arrests, Ter Manyang Gatwech, the Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, has urged President Salva Kiir to release the detained officers. He emphasized the potential threat their detention poses to the fragile peace in South Sudan, stating, “The Centre for Peace and Advocacy appeals to the President… to release Gen Duop Lam.”
Gatwech connected the arrests to the takeover of Nasir by a local militia group known as the White Army, noting that this situation could further exacerbate the instability of South Sudan’s peace process and harm its standing on the world stage. He remarked, “People are tired of war; we need to talk about development,” highlighting the necessity for dialogue and progress rather than continued violence.
In summary, the apprehension of senior SPLM-IO officers has heightened tensions in Juba, with implications for both local and national stability. The ongoing conflicts between armed forces and residents indicate a deep-rooted issue that calls for urgent attention. Advocacy for the release of detained officers seeks to prevent further destabilization of South Sudan, underscoring the need for dialogue and development to replace ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
