February 14, 2016(Nyamilepedia) —- In spite of promises of commitments to fully implement the peace agreement and the appointment of Dr. Riek Machar Teny as the First Vice President of the Republic in accordance with the Compromise Peace Agreement (CPA-II), government forces continued attacks on rebels positions in Western and Eastern Equatoria states.
According to James Gatdet Dak, the Spokesperson of SPLM/SPLA Chairman, a force believed to be controlled by president Salva Kiir has attacked SPLA-IO positions in Eastern and Western Equatoria and continues to prepare for more offensives.
“SPLM/SPLA (IO) forces have been attacked on Saturday, 13th February, and Friday, 12th February, by Government forces in different states and locations. The attacks took place in Magwi county, Eastern Equatoria state and Ezo county and Rangu payam in Western Equatoria state, respectively.” James Gatdet explained in a press statement extended to Nyamilepedia.
“Reports from the ground indicate that Government forces prepare for further attacks on SPLA-IO positions. SPLA-IO forces respects the Ceasefire but have the right to self-defense.” Gatdet continued.
According to SPLA (IO) forces on the ground, the government troops were repulsed by the rebel forces who controlled major parts of Western Equatoria.
The new attacks came just a few hours after Salva Kiir, the president, appointed Dr. Riek Machar as his First Vice President and orders his return to Juba within one week despite that the government has not withdrawn its forces from Juba and further refused to transport the armed opposition forces to the national capital, Juba.
The government forces have also been accused of attacking rebels positions in Upper Nile and Unity States. Sources from Jonglei state also accused a newly appointed Military Governor, Gen. Bol Kong, of preparing government troops to attack Lou-Nuer areas.
Coupled with an internal division within the army under the Chief of General Staff, Gen. Paul Malong Awan, it’s yet to be confirmed if President Salva Kiir controlled all the forces aligned to SPLMA-Juba
The SPLM/SPLA in Opposition regrets that the government of Salva Kiir is not committed to the peace agreement and permanent ceasefire in “letter and spirit” as the leaders say.
“It is unfortunate that the Government or elements within its leadership are not committed to peace and continue to provoke the situation. This act of aggression to try to capture more territories is a clear violation of the agreement on the Permanent Ceasefire.” Said James Gatdet Dak.
Broadcasted on a government owned channel, SSTV, ministers and military officials including the Chief of general Staff and Minister of Defence surveyed an area, a few kilometers away from the city center, yesteday for the cantonment of the guards of the First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny.
