The White Army, a powerful tribal militia, has denied any alliance with SPLA-IO under Dr. Riek Machar after their recent takeover of Nasir. The militia emphasized their role as a civilian defense group rather than a political faction, condemning the SSPDF for atrocities against civilians. Tensions in Juba escalate following these events, with significant arrests among SPLA-IO leaders.
The White Army, a significant tribal militia in South Sudan, refuted claims of any alliance with the SPLA-in opposition led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Recently, these Nuer fighters overran South Sudanese government forces in Nasir, Upper Nile State, causing significant casualties and taking prisoners before asserting control of the town, which shares a border with Ethiopia.
The situation in Nasir has led to rising tensions in the capital, Juba, with accusations directed at the SPLA-IO for supporting the White Army’s military gains. During a press conference, South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei, presented a recording suggesting that White Army members were expressing support for the SPLA-IO. The White Army responded to this accusation, clarifying their independence from Riek Machar and the SPLA-IO.
In their statement, the White Army asserted, “Let it be made clear that we do not belong to SPLM/A-IO, nor do we have any association with Dr. Riek Machar.” They emphasized their role as an armed civilian group dedicated to safeguarding their community rather than engaging in political agendas. The militia claimed to be composed of civilians who have taken up arms due to the government’s failure to protect their people.
The White Army also condemned the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) for alleged atrocities committed against civilians, including sexual violence and killings. The statement indicated, “Our confrontation with SSPDF was not about political allegiance but rather a response to their continued attacks on the people of Nasir County.” The situation remains tense, with the capital Juba witnessing a fortified military presence around Machar’s residence, and notable arrests within the ranks of SPLA-IO leadership and government officials.
In conclusion, the White Army has unequivocally denied any connections with Dr. Riek Machar’s SPLA-IO, asserting their own identity as a civilian militia committed to the protection of their community. Their recent military action in Nasir has intensified tensions with the government, raising concerns about civilian safety and exacerbating the already polarized ethnic climate within South Sudan. The ongoing situation remains delicate as both military and political responses unfold in Juba.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
