JUBA – The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny has rubbished claims by General Simon Gatwech Dual that he was not consulted by Dr. Riek Machar Teny prior to his appointment as a presidential advisor.
Find below the SPLM-IO statement dismissing General Gatwech Dual’s claim:
SUDAN PEOPLE’S LIBERATION MOVEMENT
SPLM/SPLA (IO)
GENERAL HEADQUARTERS
27th July 2021
Press Release
Clarification on General Simon Gatwech Dual Oath Former SPLA (IO) Chief of General Staff Interview with Radio Tamazuj on 24th June 2021
Reference to the above matter, the SPLM/SPLA (IO) would like to clarify the following:
- Simon Gatwech Dual Oath was appointed with his full knowledge and consent through a Republican Decree on 21″ June 2021 as Presidential Advisor for Peace.
- Per article 1.11.4 of R-ARCSS, the Presidency deliberated on increasing the number of advisors to four in two separate meetings in the past six (6) month so that SPLM/SPLA (IO) and South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) could each nominate an advisor. SPLM/SPLA (IO) leadership nominated General Simon Gatwech six months ago. This nomination was discussed in these two meetings.
- E. Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon instructed Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual Oath, in a written letter after his appointment delivered to him by hand, to go to Khartoum, Sudan where his travel arrangements to Juba are completed.
Furthermore, H.E. Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, the Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the SPLM/SPLA (IO) and the First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan relieved Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual Oath from the position of Chief of General Staff of the SPLA (IO) with effect from Tuesday 22nd June 2021.
Finally, the SPLM/SPLA (IO) reiterates its full commitment to the implementation of R-ARCSS in letter and spirit, as the only way to attain a lasting peace in the Republic of South Sudan.
Cde. Puok Both Baluang
SPLM (IO) Director of Information and Public Relations, Acting Press Secretary in the Office of the First Vice President
27th June 2021
Juba, South Sudan.