![Child soldiers listen to a speech after being released from a group called the Cobra Faction and from the main SPLA/IO rebel faction during a ceremony in Tenet, near Pibor, on October 26, 2016. [Photo by AFP PHOTO/Charles Atiki Lomodong]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Soldiers.jpg?resize=1536%2C1025&quality=89&ssl=1)
“We had agreed with the local population in Akobo County to escort those who arrived there. However, this was put on hold yesterday after Dr. Riek personally interfered in the process,” Koang told journalists at a press conference on Monday at military headquarters in Bilpam.
Koang alleged that Machar instructed the SPLA-IO commander of Division 8, Maj. Gen. James Utong, to forcibly take the displaced soldiers to their base in Walgak, but the local population refused, stating that they could not guarantee their safety.
“Dr. Riek went to speak with the local civilians, persuading them to accept the soldiers. They said, ‘No, we are not sure that their security will be guaranteed.’ So they also refused.”
He stated that Machar is blocking the SSPDF’s efforts to evacuate their men in order to claim credit for the local population who are offering them protection.
“The local population said they would either escort the soldiers from point A to the SPLA-IO base, or the soldiers would be picked up directly from where they are to be taken to Juba.”
“Dr. Riek promised that he would provide an airplane this morning. So we are hoping that this will not end the way it did in Nasir.”
He asserted that Machar wants to be the one to evacuate the displaced soldiers so he can use it for political leverage or bargaining.
“So let everyone know that we are not playing politics. Our primary objective is to save remaining precious lives. Any political interference that may lead to a situation like the one we experienced in Nasir should be addressed.”
