SPLM-IO blames government over renewed clashes in Wau

September 14, 2016 (BAGARI) – South Sudan’s armed opposition (SPLM-IO) has accused government forces of attacking their base in Western Bahr el Ghazal state last week.

Fighting erupted in Western Bahr el Ghazal state between opposition loyal to former First Vice-President, Riek Machar and government troops in parts of Wau town.

Tingo Peter, a SPLM-IO member in Western Bahr el Ghazal state admitted that the renewed fighting which occurred ahead of the state governor’s proposed peace talks was started by government forces after they attacked the SPLM-IO position.

“The government aggression on our position is jeopardizing the peace plan and will future more take us to square one, we cannot keeps talking about peace with the government while the same government is not respecting its plans,” he told Sudan Tribune.

“This attack carried out by government forces have clearly pointed its failure to strike on the voice of negotiation dialogue,” he added.

Tingo said government mobilized its forces and attacked the SPLA-IO position, but they were repulsed as their forces mainly live in their defensive positions.

Eyewitness said government soldiers moved from their positions with heavy weapons.

Meanwhile, a person was killed by unknown gunmen at Hai Kreish in Wau town on Friday morning, while another sustained injuries in a separate incident on Saturday.

(ST)