Gatwech denies defectors’ claim of weak leadership, cites fear of discipline

KOSTI – The leader of the holdout opposition SPLM-IO Kitgwang faction, General Simon Gatwech Dual, has rejected allegations of weak leadership made by former members who defected to the Real-SPLM party led by Pagan Amum.

The defectors, including the group’s ex-military spokesman, Brig. Gen. Alfred Gach Thot, left on March 20, 2021, accusing Gatwech of lacking vision and the ability to implement their desired regime change policy.

SPLM-IO Kitgwang Secretary of Foreign Affairs Manpiny disputes the defectors’ claims, instead suggesting they left to avoid disciplinary action.

“The former military spokesperson and the former Representative to Ethiopia, Cde John Gach Kuon, are indiscipline individuals with major administrative deficiency and shortcomings,” the statement reads.

“Cde John Gach has failed to report to the country of his assignment and became insubordinate to the directives from the leadership. Their defection is based on fear of the disciplinary actions the leadership might take against them,” the statement added.

The statement reaffirms the SPLM-IO Kitgwang’s commitment to regime change in Juba and the establishment of a democratic government focused on strengthening institutions, improving services, enforcing the rule of law, and combating corruption. It also emphasizes ongoing diplomatic and organizational efforts towards these goals.

“The movement has engaged the diplomatic community and organized itself on the ground to achieve this goal. it is a matter of time before the SPLM/A-IO KD wins the victory,” the statement concludes.