Olony may stay in Juba for 2 more weeks – official

JUBA, MAY 21, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan opposition commander Gen. Johnson will stay in Juba for a few more days in order to discuss some important issues with President Salva Kiir Mayardit, according to a senior Agwelek official.

Olony arrived in Juba on Sunday to implement a deal to integrate his forces into the government.

The opposition commander told journalists upon arrival at Juba International Airport that he would return to Upper Nile where he came from within five days to help in the stabilization and development of the restive state.

But speaking to Sudans Post this morning, the senior Agwelek official who requested not to be named said Olony who is the leader of the group is yet to meet Kiir and his stay in Juba may continue for two weeks until when he is able to meet the president.

“General Johnson Olony will stay for a few more days in Juba. He will not go back to Malakal now because he has a lot to do with the government and he has not yet met the President,” the senior Agwelek official said.

Olony signed an agreement with the government in January last year and his return to Juba is aimed at expediting the integration process of his forces into South Sudan’s army, the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF).

The Agwelek official said Olony will – during his stay in Juba – meet with the president, senior army officers, and other stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the peace agreement.

“So, we expect him to stay maybe for two more weeks or a month in Juba and after that he will go back to Upper Nile state,” added the source.

Observers see Olony’s return to Juba as a significant step forward in the stabilization of the country as his group represents a major factor in the Upper Nile state stability.