Sudan’s SPLA attacks Uganda’s LRA

Sept 15, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — The deputy chairman of the southern Sudan government, Riek Machar, has revealed that the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) was launching a military offensive against the Ugandan Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) to prevent the aggressions which were carried out in the area around Lanya, which is between Juba and Yei.

In a response to Suna, following a question on whether the SPLM had chosen the military alternative to remove the LRA from southern Sudan, Machar said, “The operation the SPLA is launching is only to repulse the aggression.”

He further said, “We would prefer it if the LRA could come out peacefully after the Ugandan government and the LRA find a peaceful settlement”.

He hinted that a military solution would be the last alternative.

He affirmed his trust in the high military capabilities that the SPLM enjoys, and its ability to safeguard security and stability in the country.

(ST)