White Army Disavows Connection with Riek Machar Amid Rising Tensions in South Sudan

The White Army of South Sudan denies ties with SPLA-in Opposition after recent victories against government forces in Nasir. They assert their role as a civilian protection group rather than a political entity, responding to government atrocities. Tensions in Juba escalate as military presence increases around key leaders.

The White Army, a formidable tribal militia in South Sudan, has categorically denied any alliances with the SPLA-in Opposition (SPLA-IO) led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Recently, they achieved significant victories against South Sudan government forces in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulting in casualties and the capture of prisoners of war as they assumed control of the town, which is adjacent to Ethiopia.

The developments in Nasir have provoked considerable unrest and reactions in Juba, including claims implicating SPLA-IO in the White Army’s recent successes. During a press conference, South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei, broadcasted allegations that White Army members were rallying in support of SPLA-IO.

In a clarifying statement, the White Army asserted, “We do not belong to SPLM/A-IO, nor do we have any association with Dr. Riek Machar or any other individual affiliated with the SPLA-IO.” They emphasize their identity as an armed civilian entity dedicated to protecting their community amidst perceived governmental neglect.

The militia articulated that their confrontations with the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) stemmed from ongoing atrocities committed against civilians. They highlighted, “Our confrontation with SSPDF was not about political allegiance but rather a response to their continued attacks on the people of Nasir County.”

The aftermath of the conflict in Nasir has led to heightened tensions in Juba, where the military has surrounded Machar’s residence. Additionally, SPLA-IO Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, along with the minister of petroleum, Puot Kang, has been detained in connection with these ongoing events.

In summary, the White Army has firmly rejected any affiliation with the SPLA-in Opposition amid escalating conflicts in South Sudan. Their focus remains on protecting their community against abuses from government forces. As tensions rise in Juba and significant military detentions occur, the situation calls for urgent attention to the underlying ethnic and political dimensions at play.

Original Source: chimpreports.com