S. Sudan army accuses rebels of launching new military offensive

February 9, 2015 (JUBA) – The South Sudanese army (SPLA) on Monday accused the armed opposition forces of allegedly launching new military offensives in violation of the recent ceasefire agreement.

“The forces of Riek Machar launched attacks on SPLA positions yesterday [Sunday]. They launched attack on our position in Wankai in Mayom County, which is in Unity state and another on SPLA forces in Nasir town in Upper Nile state, but all these were repulsed and the SPLA forces in full control now,” Aguer said on Monday.

“This is a clear violation of the ceasefire, which is not a surprise to us because they [opposition forces] have never committed themselves to the cessation of hostilities from the day it was signed,” he said.

Upper Nile’s information minister, Peter Hoth Tuach, also confirmed the incident in a separate interview with Sudan Tribune on Monday.

“Yes, the rebels shelled positions of our forces yesterday. They shelled Nasir town from southern site from Nordeng but it was repulsed. Our forces responded immediately when the town came under sustained bombardment,” said Tuach.

“The situation is now under control. Everything is normal but our forces are on maximum alert,” added the minister.

However, both officials were cautious about the details of the new military offensive.

Last week, South Sudanese leader Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar partially signed a symbolic power-sharing deal proposed by the East African regional bloc (IGAD) recommitting themselves to further negotiations on outstanding issues.

Observers have expressed pessimism about the latest agreement’s ability to halt the conflict, citing ongoing preparations by warring parties for further military offensives.

(ST)