White Army Asserts Independence from SPLA-in Opposition Amid Rising Tensions
The White Army in South Sudan has distanced itself from the SPLA-in Opposition, clarifying that they are not allied with Dr. Riek Machar. They claimed control over Nasir after clashes with government forces, citing human rights violations by the SSPDF. Tensions in Juba have increased following these events, with significant arrests within the military ranks.
In a recent development, the White Army, a formidable tribal militia in South Sudan, has disavowed any affiliation with the SPLA-in Opposition, led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. The militia engaged South Sudanese government forces in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulting in significant casualties and captives among the SSPDF. This confrontation has led to heightened tensions in the capital, Juba, where accusations have been directed at SPLA-IO for the White Army’s military advancements.
The Minister of Information for South Sudan, Michael Makuei, addressed the media, sharing a recording that suggested the White Army members expressed support for the SPLA-IO. In response, the White Army clarified their stance, stating, “Let it be made clear that 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.”
Notably, Dr. Machar, a leading figure in South Sudan’s political landscape, is of Nuer ethnicity, the same as the White Army’s members. Nevertheless, the White Army maintained that their primary objective is the protection of their people rather than political ambitions. They asserted, “We are civilians, young men who have taken up arms to protect our people when the government fails to do so.”
The White Army accused the national army of severe human rights violations, citing atrocities against civilians, including sexual violence and killings. They emphasized that their conflict with SSPDF stems from ongoing aggression rather than political loyalties, stating, “Our confrontation with SSPDF was not about political allegiance.”
In the aftermath of these events, tensions have escalated in Juba, with military forces reportedly surrounding the home of Dr. Machar. Notably, SPLA-IO Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam and the Minister of Petroleum, Puot Kang, have been arrested amid the growing unrest.
In summary, the White Army has categorically denied any allegiance to the SPLA-in Opposition, emphasizing their role as a civilian defense group rather than a political entity. This clarification coincides with heightened tensions in South Sudan, marked by allegations of military atrocities and the arrest of key military figures. The situation remains precarious, with ongoing violence and the potential for further conflict between tribal militias and government forces.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
