CTSAMVM launches probe into alleged SSDPF, NAS clashes
The ceasefire monitoring body has launched an investigation into recent alleged armed clashes between SSDPF and NAS forces in some parts of Central Equatoria.
The Chairperson of the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), Maj. Gen. Teshome Gemechu Aderie told the board members’ meeting on Monday that the clashes are threatening the ongoing slow-paced peace process in the country.
Gemechu said there have been reports of clashes involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and those of the National Salvation Front (NAS) in Central Equatoria State.
“There have been several incidents allegedly involving NAS forces in Central Equatoria. We are investigating these incidents, and you will be briefed on these incidents, ” Gemechu said.
Last week, NAS issued a statement accusing government forces of offensive attacks on their positions in various locations within Central and Western Equatoria states, but the SSPDF denied any armed clashes.
Gen Thomas Cirilo’s forces claimed the SSPDF had recently intensified what they termed as ‘dry season military operations’ against its positions.
“On January 18, 2022, the SSPDF again attacked the NAS position in Wuji, Kupera in Lainya County similarly the SSPDF incurred heavy losses both in lives and materials,” the statement read in part.
It said the army was using Katigiri and Loka west as a launching path and that the army had also conducted an incursion into the NAS position, the allegation that has been denied by the SSDPF.
Not us
Last Friday, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai, the SSPDF Spokesperson, told The City Review that: “We are not at war with the National Salvation Front.”
The government and the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (SSOMA)—of which NAS is a member— are yet to resume negotiations in Rome following President Salva Kiir’s directive lifting the suspension of the talks in November last year.
The president had ceased negotiations with the holdouts due to alleged NAS violations of the cessation of hostility agreement by attacking and killing passengers along the country’s lifeline road – Nimule Highway.
However, unverified reports by some civilians allege that there have been clashes, where gunshots were heard around Lainya County last week with the heavy presence of armed forces seen on the ground.
They also said many people have fled to nearby bushes in Katire and some villages due to fear of imminent armed clashes in the areas.
Recently, President Kiir summoned a meeting with top brass leaders, among them the speaker of Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly and vice presidents, and appealed to all rebels to observe the ceasefire agreement.
“The President re-affirmed his commitment to fast-tracking the ongoing implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement and has urged the rebel groups to observe the ceasefire,” said James Deng Wal, the Executive Director in the Office of the President.
However, the CTSAMVM boss, however, acknowledged the efforts of the Community of Sant’Egidio to work with CTSAMVM, RJMEC, IGAD, and SSOMA to resume the Rome process to make the peace process in South Sudan inclusive.
