BENTIU – South Sudan rebel group, South Sudan United Front (SSUF) led by former army chief General Paul Malong Awan has accused the government of President Salva Kiir Mayardit of attacking his bases a day after declaring a unilateral ceasefire.
Malong who denied reports that he threatened to withdraw from the Rome declaration he signed with the government of president Salva Kiir said the attack amounts violation of the ceasefire agreement they recommitted to few days ago in Rome.
In the below statement, Sunday de’John, a spokesman for Malong accused the government of attacking their military positions in parts of the country’s Unity State.
“The South Sudan United Front/Army is informing its entire membership, supporters, partners and the international community that yesterday at around 5:30 PM our forces were attacked by heavily armed forces belonging to the government of the Republic of South Sudan.
“The attack occurred in the areas around Chiombarow and Riaydeng villages. These are areas between Nhialdiu and Bentiu. The attack resulted into some injuries on both sides and the field commanders are trying to monitor the situation in avoidance of further confrontations.
“This attack occurred even after the Commander-In-Chief restrained the forces from any active combat.
“However, we are informing our supporters, partners and the international community that such an attack is politically motivated and thus, was aimed at peace spoilage and despite this, South Sudan United Front/Army will focus its efforts in respect of the recently signed Rome Declaration that called for cessation of hostilities.
“As directed by the Commander-in-Chief, the forces should maintain the restrain and act only in self-defense.”
