SPLM-IO Accuses State Government of Peace Deal Breach
Yambio – The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO) has accused the Western Equatoria State government of violating the 2018 peace agreement. The SPLM-IO, led by Riek Machar Teny, alleges a major government reshuffle occurred without proper consultation.
The reshuffle involved the appointment of a new mayor and the removal of 17 Director-Generals. The SPLM-IO contends that these actions constitute a breach of the established peace accord.
Details of the Reshuffle
The state government announced changes on Thursday, November 27. Fozia Abbas Barnaba Bangasu of the SPLM-In-Government (SPLM-IG) replaced John Singira of the SPLM-IO as Mayor of Yambio Municipality.
Moreover, the SPLM-IO reports that 17 Directors from state ministries and bureaus were dismissed. They claim that SPLM-IG members replaced these individuals in a unilateral decision.
SPLM-IO’s Response
Deputy Governor Justin Joseph Marona, also the interim SPLM-IO Chairperson, addressed the situation. He stated that the reshuffle violates power-sharing arrangements under the R-ARCSS.
The agreement mandates consultation between all parties before altering major administrative structures. Marona emphasized that the restructuring of government bodies occurred without SPLM-IO’s input.
Concerns Over Procedural Violations
Marona highlighted the unfilled Deputy Commissioner position of the Revenue Authority. This exemplifies the ongoing tensions between the SPLM and SPLM-IO.
He further asserted that the changes to Director General positions did not follow due process. Public service regulations necessitate a presale committee by the Council of Ministers prior to such changes.
Commitment to Peace and Stability
Marona reaffirmed the SPLM-IO’s dedication to the 2018 peace deal’s full implementation. He stressed the agreement’s importance in resolving years of political conflict.
He warned that unilateral actions could reignite past disputes and destabilize progress. This could undermine reforms leading up to the 2026 general elections.
Lack of Response from SPLM
Efforts to secure comments from the SPLM leadership in Western Equatoria State proved unsuccessful. They had not responded by the time of this publication.
