SPLM/A 30th anniversary celebration aborted
May 16, 2013 (JUBA) – The announced celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), which is commemorated today on its historical day, 16th May, is abruptly aborted, according to last minute notice from the army.
However, while preparations have been done with foreign dignitaries and senior government officials already invited to attend the event, the army general headquarters on Wednesday evening made an abrupt announcement broadcast on the state-owned South Sudan TV that the event was cancelled “for circumstances beyond their control.”
No explanations were given for the sudden cancellation of the historic event for the ruling party and its military wing.
A military official however told Sudan Tribune that the cancellation came in view of the security situation, without giving details.
Rebels based in Jonglei state under the command of David Yau Yau have been making claims of imminent attacks in various towns in Jonglei, including Pibor and the state capital, Bor.
SPLA’s spokesman, Col. Philip Aguer, has confirmed that the rebels have in recent days renewed attacks against the army positions in Pibor County.
They also threatened to attack Kapoeta town in Eastern Equatoria state, causing civilians to flee the area, according to the United Nations reports announced on Miraya FM radio.
There are reports that elements from the South Sudan army in the frontline against the rebels have been withdrawing, complaining of lack of food and logistics as the rainy season approaches, fearing that it may cut off supply routes.
The rebels are also believed to have caused insecurity on the roads connecting the capital, Juba to Torit, Nimule and Bor.
Other officials however said the cancellation of Juba celebrations might have come as a result of the ongoing greater Bhar el Ghazal’s regional conference taking place in the Western Bahr el Ghazal’s capital, Wau, in which several senior party officials have gone to and attended.
It is for the third time that the 16th May anniversary celebration is deferred to a later date, sometimes to 26th May, like it occurred for the first time in 2009.
(ST)