SPLA-IO commander who defected last month causing tensions in Central Equatoria – peace monitors

JUBA – A former SPLA-IO commander who defected to President Salva Kiir’s forces in September is causing tensions and disruptions among civilians in many parts of Central Equatoria state, according to peace monitors.

General Moses Lokujo defected along with several soldiers in September, days before attacking SPLA-IO in a fight that lasted for days.

Speaking during the CTSAMVM Technical Committee Meeting held in Juba on Thursday, Maj. Gen. Teshome Gemechu Aderie, the head of the peace-monitoring body said rate of incidents involving General Thomas Cirilo Swaka are increasing and said General Lokujo’s forces are causing tensions in Central Equatoria.

“We also continue to receive reports of tension and anxiety in the areas of Moroto, Kirwa, Bori, Andijo caused by Maj Gen Moses Lokujo’s forces,” said Gen. Teshome.

“The tension in the areas has also cut off the civilians from accessing the Training Centre where they sell their goods,” He added.

Gen. Teshome, however, said ceasefire continues to hold with no reported incidents of clashes between the parties to the revitalized agreement.

The CTSAMVM is mandated by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to monitor and verify the implementation of the Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities as per the peace deal.