Tensions Rise in South Sudan Amid Security Forces’ Actions Around Riek Machar’s Residence

Tensions are rising in South Sudan as security forces surround Riek Machar’s residence following the arrest of General Gabriel Duop Lam. The SPLA-IO condemned these actions, claiming they violate the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and threaten peace efforts. They demand the withdrawal of troops and the release of General Lam while calling for international intervention to prevent further conflict.

Tensions have escalated in South Sudan as security forces have established a perimeter around the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar. This action follows the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam, the acting chief of staff of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The SPLA-IO condemned this deployment as a violation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, asserting that it threatens ongoing peace efforts and exacerbates existing violence in the region.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the SPLA-IO expressed severe anxiety over the troop buildup surrounding Machar’s home, denouncing it as provocative behavior. They stated, “We are also gravely concerned about the heavy deployment of SSPDF around the residence of Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, the First Vice President and Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the SPLM/A-IO.” They emphasized that such actions compromise trust among peace partners and put efforts to reduce violence in Upper Nile State at risk.

The SPLA-IO additionally condemned General Duop Lam’s arrest, attributing it to the orchestration of SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces General Paul Nang. They characterized this detention as a blatant violation of the 2018 peace deal, declaring, “This action violates the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and cripples the Joint Defence Board… This act puts the entire agreement at risk.”

In light of these developments, the SPLA-IO is demanding the immediate withdrawal of government troops from around Machar’s residence and the release of General Lam. Moreover, they have appealed to the international community, indicating that intervention is needed to prevent a return to widespread violence. They stated that they are committed to implementing the peace agreement, and reiterated that dialogue must guide the transition in their country.

As of the latest updates, there has been no response from the South Sudanese government or the SSPDF regarding these tensions or the situation surrounding General Duop Lam’s arrest. The atmosphere remains fraught, with concerns that the standoff might escalate if not addressed promptly.

In summary, the situation in South Sudan remains precarious following the detention of General Gabriel Duop Lam and the increased military presence around Riek Machar’s residence. The SPLA-IO has raised serious concerns regarding these actions, urging for the withdrawal of security forces and the release of Lam. Continued international engagement is crucial to de-escalate tensions and uphold the commitments made under the 2018 peace agreement.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke