Warrap State defying Kiir’s order expelling spiritual leader Gai Machiek, says Abyei minister

ABYEI – The government of the Abyei Special Administrative Area (ASAA) has leveled accusations against authorities in Warrap state, claiming they are flouting a recent presidential directive issued by President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

The directive ordered the expulsion of Nuer spiritual leader Gai Machiek from Warrap State.

Machiek, originally from Mayom County in Unity State, sought refuge in Warrap in 2021 following attack by government forces and allied militias on his cattle camp.

This attack ensued after he refused to participate in military operations against rebel leader General Stephen Buay Rolnyang, subsequent to the killing of Mayom Commissioner Chuol Gatluak.

Since then, Abyei authorities have branded Machiek a ‘rebel general,’ alleging his involvement in attacks alongside armed youth from Twic Mayardit, resulting in the deaths of numerous Ngok Dinka civilians.

In response to escalating tensions between Twic Mayardit and Ngok Dinka, President Kiir issued a presidential order last month, which included the expulsion of Machiek from Warrap State.

However, locals in Ajak Kuac Payam in Twic County protested against the presidential orders, citing a violation of South Sudan’s transitional constitution.

They also expressed concerns that Machiek would face prosecution if forced to return to Unity State.

In a statement obtained by Sudans Post on Wednesday, Abyei government spokesman Bulis Koch accused the Warrap State government of disregarding the presidential orders.

He dismissed statements attributed to the Warrap State information minister, who claimed that Abyei Box operations were suspended.

“The government of Warrap State has clearly refused to implement the presidential orders by continuing to host the renegade militia Gai Machiek in Twic County of Warrap State and by organizing a rally to dismiss the presidential order which directs Warrap State to allow the renegade militia to move out of the State, to any other State of his choice,” stated the spokesperson.

Bulis also denied the Warrap government claim that armed youth from Abyei launched an attack on a village in Warrap on January 19.

“Malual Aleu is within Abyei Box, and no incidents were reported on that day,” he clarified.