The security situation in South Sudan has deteriorated as heavy forces surround Vice President Riek Machar’s residence following the arrest of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO has condemned these actions as violations of the peace agreement, warning of increased violence. They demand a military withdrawal and international intervention to ensure stability and promote dialogue.
Tensions have escalated in South Sudan following the deployment of significant security forces surrounding the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar. This action was initiated after the arrest of General Gabriel Duop Lam, the acting chief of staff of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The opposition faction condemned this deployment, asserting that it infringes upon the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and jeopardizes peace efforts in the region.
The SPLA-IO has expressed serious concerns regarding the military presence, labeling it a provocation that undermines trust among peace partners. They emphasized the potential for increased violence in Upper Nile State, which could stem from such actions. The spokesperson for the SPLA-IO, Pal Mai Deng, stated that this security buildup threatens the progress of diminishing conflict in the area.
In addition to the military actions, the opposition group condemned the arrest of General Duop Lam, describing it as a direct affront to the 2018 peace accord. They accused General Paul Nang, Chief of Defence Forces of the SSPDF, of orchestrating this arrest, thereby compromising the Joint Defence Board that oversees the unified command structure of armed forces.
The SPLA-IO has called for the immediate withdrawal of security forces from Machar’s residence and the unconditional release of General Duop Lam. They have urged international guarantors of the peace agreement to take preventive measures to avert a potential escalation into broader conflict and violence within the country. The group has reiterated the necessity of dialogue in achieving a peaceful transition in South Sudan.
As of now, there has yet to be a response from the South Sudanese government or the SSPDF address the situation around Machar’s residence or the detention of General Duop Lam. The environment remains fraught with tension, leading to increased fears that the standoff might escalate further within the upcoming days.
In summary, the deployment of security forces around Riek Machar’s residence and the subsequent arrest of General Duop Lam has heightened tensions in South Sudan, raising concerns regarding the integrity of the 2018 peace agreement. The SPLA-IO’s demands for de-escalation and international intervention underscore the precarious nature of the political and security landscape. Given the potential for increased violence, the situation necessitates urgent attention from all parties involved to preserve peace efforts in the region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
