JUBA – A fierce fighting between South Sudan rebels and members of South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have clashed in Lakes state with South Sudan United Front (SSUF) led by General Paul Malong Awan claiming victory over government forces.
In a statement extended to Sudans Post, deputy SSUF/A spokesman Maj. Philip Deng Kuol Nyuot said members of South Sudan army attacked their base in Lakes state and the battle ended with the defeat of the government forces.
“In a retaliation, the SSUF/A gallant forces loyal to Gen. Paul Malong Awan made a very strong fortification and gained crucial advances in the hotspot Langdit,” Maj. Kuol’s release read.
“The attackers were repulsed and dispersed in different directions and our forces remain in full control of the entire territory.”
When contacted by Radio Tamazuj earlier today on phone, Maj Kuol said they did not lose any soldier in the skirmishes but only sustained minor injuries.
“It went bad on the side of the government, SSUF/A invincible forces managed to capture an SSPDF convoy mounted with BM in a good condition, 5 PKM machine guns, 7 AK-47 rifles, and 7 SSPDF soldiers died on spot and we captured 4 alive,” Maj Kuol said.
On the impact of the recent clash on the Rome talks between the government and the South Sudan Opposition Movement’s Alliance (SSOMA) in which SSUF/A is a member, he said the clash was instigated by the SSPDF and will have an impact on the Rome talks.
“We have signed the cessation of hostility agreements three times; in 2017 in Addis Ababa, and then in Rome and most recently in Naivasha, Kenya. It is the government which is violating the ceasefire but we are committed to the full implementation of the documents that we have been signing,” he added.
Maj Kuol said the government must desist from such heinous attacks and the use of belligerent language that can derail the Rome peace process.
“SSUF/A remains committed to the Rome Peace Accords and the signed cessation of hostilities of late 2017, Rome and later Naivasha,” Maj Kuol said. “We are very committed to the ongoing peace initiative mediated by Sant’Egidio for it is the only option that will emancipate the downtrodden South Sudanese.”
He urged IGAD, AU, and the international community, particularly Sant’Egidio, to separately investigate the matter.
