SPLA-IO expresses regrets over statements against Ethiopian governor

May 12, 2015 (ADDIS ABABA) – Official military spokesman of the South Sudanese rebel faction led by former vice-president, Riek Machar, has apologised over an “irresponsible” statement against the governor of Gambella region in Ethiopia which was released to public by a junior volunteer in his office without his knowledge or authorisation.

Colonel Lony T. Ngundeng, in a statement extended to ’Sudan Tribune on Monday explained that he was in the field and without internet access when one of his office volunteers, Dickson Gatluak Jock Nyuot, wrote and distributed the statement.

Colonel Ngundeng said Dickson who claimed to be a deputy spokesman or assistant press officer for military was never officially appointed to the position and was only assisting in the office as a volunteer.

“Therefore, Dickson Galuak has no official authorisation neither from me nor from the leadership of the SPLM/A in Opposition,” he said.

Sudan Tribune on Monday published statements attributed to the rebel group without naming the source in which the governor of Gambella regional government, Gatluak Tut Khot, was allegedly accused by Machar’s opposition faction of supporting president Salva Kiir’s government.

The statement also alleged that the governor was being bribed with 3.5 million South Sudanese pounds (SSP) by Juba.

This came when a delegation from South Sudan arrived in Gambella town to meet with officials from the regional government on cross-border security and cooperation between neighbouring communities.

After the publication, Machar’s spokesman, James Gatdet Dak, immediately disowned the accusation against the Ethiopian governor, saying it did not come from the movement or its leadership.

Dak, who said he mainly handles political matters, did not however mention the person directly responsible for the statement, saying he was not also aware that it originated from the military office.

After learning the source he advised the media not to publish any press statement bearing the signature of Dickson Gatluak Jock Nyuot until the military spokesperson was informed and the matter was sorted out.

Colonel Ngundeng who held his member staff responsible for the “false” accusation assured that he would ensure such a thing should not happen again in his office.

“I personally appeal to H.E Galuak Tut to ignore such baseless accusations,” he said.

(ST)