Two army commanders in Unity state abandon Taban, join Kiir

BENTIU – Two South Sudan army commanders in the country’s Unity state have abandoned one of the country’s five vice presidents, General Taban Deng Gai, and joined President Salva Kiir Mayardit, according to a statement extended to Sudans Post this morning.

Major-General Biel Matuek and Colonel Lor Buop declared their defection from Taban on Monday over what they said is corruption and lack of clear vision from the country’s vice president.

“Maj. Gen Biel Matueh and Col. Hoth Lor Buop declared their defection from Gen. Taban Deng Gai camp. Citing corruption, lack of clear direction and vision. The group stressed that, they thought Gen. Taban Deng Gai is working closely with SPLM under the wise leadership of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, but until recently when Gen. Taban Deng Gai was viciously demanding percentages on States, as per responsibilities Sharing in the RTGoNU,” the group said in a statement extended to Sudans Post.

“Upon hearing such absurd statement from Gen. Taban Deng Gai and his group  as SPLM allies, this has actually triggered our defection and join the  SPLM fully without hesitation. from today onward  we are  no longer supporters of Gen Taban Deng Gai, as leaders with followers both civilians and foot soldiers, we have declare our allegiance to the country leadership under our brave President Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, Commander in Chief and  Chairman of SPLM party,” they added.

“The people of Unity State has lost trust and confidence from Gen Taban Deng, because of divide and rule policy that he always promotes.

We also thanks our brother and leader, Governor of Unity State, Lt Gen Dr Joseph Manytuil for spearheaded the ongoing process of Peace, reconciliation and forgiveness through BENTIU PEACE INITIATIVE. As a group we pledges our full support to this magnificent initiative that shall bring together the people of Unity State.

“Moreover, we applauded remarkably  his  achievements for disseminating peace  messages across all counties of Unity State. Hence, we called upon Leek Nyalthiang Community who are still supporting Gen Taban Deng Gai to abandon and disown him in his leadership.

“Finally, from today onward we will join the wagon  of SPLM cadres, Main stream under  the leadership of President Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit and Hon Gov. Dr Joseph Manytuil Wijang, the Governor of Unity State- Bentiu.”