Nov 19, 2020(Nyamilepedia) — Narrating his defection from South Sudan’s main armed opposition, a junior official from one of the strongholds of the SPLM/A-IO said he had no better options other than jumping out of the boat in the middle of the ocean with hopes that if he survives he would contribute in “other areas”.
Hon. Tut Chot Rial Gaw, a former commissioner of the Akobo East county, one of the former SPLM/A-IO officials who are now relinquishing their loyalties, resigned from the SPLM/A-IO on November 13, 2020 following a consultative meeting of the Greater Akobo chaired by the First Vice President and Chairman of the SPLM/A-IO, Dr. Riek Machar Teny.
According to a resignation letter extended to Nyamilepedia, Tut believes that he is resigning because of the reasons that have been cited by those who defected ahead of him.
“Unfortunately, we got stuck in the middle of the ocean. I therefore, decided to resign from the party due to what the rest of my colleagues have mentioned in their previous resignations, but I don’t want to repeat it joined in the liberation struggle because I love my people and my country as well,” Col. Tut Chot said.
Being cautious about the feelings of his colleges, Tut appreciates everyone who has walked alongside his struggles.
“I officially inform you about my resignation from the movement (SPLM/A-IO). I thank all of you for the great time we spent together as comrades in the struggle who decided to liberate our people from the system which never gives them freedom and we tried to rescue them from that system,” He continued.
Tut said he is resigning to serve his people through other political parties, which is rumoured to be the NDM of Lam Akol, or else he will contribute to his community as a private individual.
“I know my resignation from SPLM/A-IO will hurt those who know my role and contribution in the movement so far. So it can be too difficult for me to continue as member under these circumstances,” Hon. Tut said.
“I decided to help my people in different capacity as normal citizen or if I wish to join another political party that may has clear vision and objectives towards prosperity of South Sudan,” he added.
The former commissioner of the Akobo East county lost his seat when the SPLM/A-IO 21 states were frozen to give the revitalized peace agreement a chance; however, he decided to wait patiently until last week when he failed to secure a meaningful position in the local government.
