CEPO warns of ‘significant threat’ to peace as new rebel alliance emerges

JUBA, APRIL 13, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan’s civil society watchdog Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has warned of significant threat to peace in the country after a new rebel military alliance emerged in Upper Nile state.

Earlier this month, rebel groups led by SPLM-IO Kitgwang faction under Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual, formed a new alliance dubbed South Sudan Federal Democratic Alliance (SSFDA) with the aim to “bring peace to South Sudan.”

The new rebel alliance was formed in the wake of reports of clashes that erupted at the remote fishing camp of Khor Adar Area in Upper Nile State.

In a statement, CEPO raised concern about the continued growth of “the gun class” across the country and said that the increasing presence of armed military groups across South Sudan is a significant threat to the safety and security of the civilian population.

“The political and gun classes in South Sudan are confused and lack political maturity for administering public governance for the best interest of the citizens which is central centered on prevailing peace and stability,” says Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of CEPO.

“The political and gun classes are regularly becoming a curse for the citizens of South Sudan.

“For long will the armed military struggle continue which resulted in the loss of human lives and properties and denying the citizens human and societal growth?

“Political grievances or discontented positions can be resolved through dialogue and the government should demonstrate primary responsibility of political commitment for a successful political transitional process from violence to peace,” he added.