SSOMA condemns attacks on NAS bases in Equatoria region

January 30, 2022 (NAIROBI) – An alliance of South Sudanese opposition movement (SSOMA) has condemned the “continuous” attacks by government forces on the National Salvation Front (NAS) positions in several parts of Central and Western Equatoria States.

SOMMA, in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune, said the hold-group witnessed extensive and continuous attacks on its military positions all over the Equatoria region by forces of the Juba regime.

“The attacks took place on the 5th and 18th January in multiple bases in Lainya County (CES) and on 26th January in Lainya and Wonduruba. These unprovoked attacks by SSPDF have been met with formidable resistance by NAS forces in defense of their bases and civilians in the area,” partly reads the statement issued on January 30.

It added, “SSOMA condemns in the strongest possible terms this aggression of the [Salva] Kiir regime. The regime’s attacks are taking place in the backdrop of President Kiir’s call for “unconditional engagement with SSOMA”.

The opposition alliance accused the Juba government of pursuing military strategy as opposed to peaceful means of ending conflict.

It, however, stressed that it is fully committed to the Rome peace initiative under the auspices of the Community of Sant’Egidio.

“However, SSOMA will not tolerate attacks and aggression on its positions,” it noted.

(ST)