NAS denies links with SSPM group
June 11, 2024 (NAIROBI) – The opposition National Salvation Front (NAS) has denied links with Gen. Stephen Buay Rolnyang, the leader of South Sudan People’s Movement ( SSPM).
Gen. Buay claimed he was in contact NAS Chairman Gen. Thomas Cirilo Swaka to convince him to join the ongoing peace talks in Nairobi, Kenya.
“There has never been any communication or contact between Gen. Stephen Buay Rolnyang and NAS leadership regarding the Tumaini Peace Initiative. Therefore, Gen. Buay’s remarks are false and misleading to the public,” NAS said in a statement.
“NAS condemns Gen. Stephen Buay’s misrepresentation in the strongest terms. The leadership considers his remarks unfortunate, especially since they come from a fellow opposition leader who is regarded as a partner in the struggle for freedom, justice, and equality”, it added.
The opposition group said it is committed to the position taken by South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (SSOMA) at the Nairobi talks.
“NAS calls on its members, supporters, and sympathizers to remain calm and resolute, urging them not to be distracted by unsubstantiated information. Any unofficial or unstructured utterances should be treated as mere passing clouds,” it noted.
In December 2023, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir requested his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto to take over the mediation from the Community of Sant’Egidio in Rome, amid concerns over delays in talks.
(ST)