Release of Machar Allies Amid Ongoing Political Tensions in South Sudan
Eight individuals who were arrested alongside Riek Machar’s allies have been released, but Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and others remain detained. The SPLM-IO calls for their release, and experts stress the importance of upholding human rights amid escalating political tensions in South Sudan.
The Press Secretary to First Vice President Riek Machar, Puok Both Baluang, confirmed the release of eight individuals who were detained alongside Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol following tensions in Nasir, Upper Nile State. A total of 21 individuals were arrested by the National Security Service agents, with Baluang stating, “We would like to confirm that eight individuals have been released out of the 21 people who were arrested together with the Minister of Petroleum, Puot Kang Chol.”
The people who were released include several notable figures: Nelson Malou Lueng Makeny, Kun Tut Gatluak, Peter Magong Degay, Koang Puok Thoat, Biluny Puok Thoat, Buay Thichuong Buoy, Yien Dak Kuach, and Bidit Hoth Guandong. Despite this release, the Petroleum Minister and Gen. Duop Lam, the SPLA-IO Chief of General Staff, remain in detention. Baluang emphasized the SPLM-IO’s continued request for the release of all detained members, including Puot Kang Chol and Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, expressed approval of the release of the eight individuals but urged for the liberation of the remaining detainees. He highlighted the necessity of upholding the rule of law and safeguarding human rights during politically charged circumstances. Yakani stated, “The leadership of the parties to the peace agreement should refrain from resolving their political differences through violence.”
He further warned against the consequences of failing to honor the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, stating that negligence could precipitate the agreement’s downfall. Yakani stated, “The Presidency must be proactive in mitigating any major political misunderstandings among the peace partners.”
Recent weeks have witnessed heightened tensions between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) loyal to President Salva Kiir and the forces supporting First Vice President Riek Machar. These tensions escalated following violent confrontations between the SSPDF and the White Army in Nasir County, which led to intensified crackdowns on Machar’s allies, including the ongoing detention of the Petroleum Minister and senior military officials associated with Machar.
In summary, eight out of 21 detainees linked to Riek Machar have been released; however, several prominent figures including the Petroleum Minister remain in custody. Calls for further releases underscore the need for upholding human rights and the rule of law amid ongoing political tensions in South Sudan. Edmund Yakani’s caution regarding the implications of neglecting the Revitalized Agreement emphasizes the precarious political climate and the necessity for constructive dialogue among leadership to mitigate conflict.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
