SPLM-IO denounces ‘deceptions’ it is obstacle to peace, says those insisting ‘not well-informed’

First Vice President and SPLM-IO leader Dr. Riek Machar addresses a press conference jointly with President Salva Kiir (not seen) at the State House in Juba, on February 20, 2020 (Photo: via Getty Images)

JUBA – South Sudan’s main armed opposition group, SPLM-IO, led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny, has said that people claiming that it is an obstacle to peace are not well-informed.

“For those who are speaking on the streets of Juba claiming and making deceptions that the SPLM/A-IO is an obstacle to peace and stability in the country over the issue of Upper Nile State are not well informed About the R-ARCSS,” Dut Majokdit, a senior SPLM-IO official who is in Juba said in a statement to Sudans Post on Friday.

“We are committed to peace that we signed on the 12th Sept 2018,” he added.

It is unclear why the senior opposition official uttered such remarks, but this comes hours after President Salva Kiir Mayardit said during a ceremony in Juba on Friday that he would want Machar to write a written pledge accepting liability for any issue that may arise from General Johnson Olony’s appointment as governor of Upper Nile state.

“The agreement gives the SPLM-IO the right to nominate their candidate and submit to the president only for appointment. It’s time to read the agreement with understanding before you blame SPLM-IO with unfounded claims,” he said.

“SPLM/A-IO leadership in the person of FVP Excellency Dr Riek Machar Teny is responsible for our nominees that are going to be appointed,” the official added.

He further urged President Salva Kiir “urgently appoint General Johnson Olony to the Governorship of Upper Nile State towards the formation of the states and local governments without delay.

“This delay tactics will jeopardize the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement.”