Eight individuals associated with First Vice-President Riek Machar have been released from detention, while key figures, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, remain imprisoned. Edmund Yakani emphasizes the need for respect for human rights and political responsibility amidst rising tensions in South Sudan.
The Press Secretary to First Vice-President Riek Machar, Mr. Puok Both Baluang, announced that eight individuals have been released from detention by the National Security Service after their recent arrest alongside Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol. Baluang confirmed that these releases included family members of the minister and took place amidst ongoing political tensions in Nasir, Upper Nile State.
Among those released are Nelson Malou Lueng Makeny, Kun Tut Gatluak, Peter Magong Degay, Koang Puok Thoat, Biluny Puok Thoat, Buay Thichuong Buoy, Yien Dak Kuach, and Bidit Hoth Guandong. However, he mentioned that both Minister Puot Kang Chol and Gen. Duop Lam, the SPLA-IO Chief of General Staff, remain in detention. The SPLM-IO has reiterated its demand for the release of these individuals and other detainees.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, expressed support for the release of the eight individuals while calling for the freedom of the remaining detainees. Yakani emphasized the necessity of respecting human rights and adhering to the rule of law amidst the political tensions stemming from the 2018 peace agreement.
He warned against resolving political disagreements through violence and characterized recent political actions as indicators of immaturity and lack of discipline within governance. Yakani cautioned that neglecting political responsibility in implementing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) may threaten its viability.
Tensions have surged recently among the forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those of First Vice President Riek Machar, leading to clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army in Nasir County. These conflicts prompted the government to intensify its actions against Machar’s supporters, with several senior military officials also remaining in custody.
In summary, eight associates of First Vice-President Riek Machar have been released from detention amid escalating political tensions in South Sudan. While this is a positive development, several key figures, including the Petroleum Minister, remain incarcerated. The call for their release highlights the ongoing challenges regarding human rights and political dynamics in the region, raising concerns about the potential ramifications for the 2018 peace agreement.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
