S. Sudanese in Ethiopia welcome SPLM-IO advance team’s visit to Juba
December 22, 2015 (ADDIS ABABA) – A group of South Sudanese in Ethiopia have welcomed the arrival of the rebel faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM-IO) advance team in South Sudan Capital, Juba on 21 December, 2015.
Speaking from Kule Refugee Camp on telephone, Rebbecca Nyalow Gatkaal Wang whose husband killed in the battle of Wetmakur near Bor Town in Jonglie State in early 2014 applauded the advance team mission to Juba.
“My husband was killed in Bor, Jonglei state, but as a Christian I believe in forgiveness”, she said.
Nyakong Madieng Chol in Pugnido Refugee Camp said she doubted the implementation because too many agreements were dishonored by both factions. She added that women and children had been the worst victims of the conflict.
“We’re the one dying in this war. Our children and husbands have been finished and we’re forced to come to different countries where we experienced some bad events such as rape and other humiliations. This war should stop,” said Chol.
Kang Malou Dey from Jewi Refugee Camp said that “we’re tired of war. War has no meaning rather our aim is to unite as one family”.
A Church deacon from Jewi Refugee camp said she was disappointed to hear media reports that South Sudan army chief, Paul Malong boycotted rebels’ return to Juba.
“That make me sad and I interpreted that Juba is not happy for peace,” said Deacon Nyakek Gatnor Puot.
Meanwhile Ruot Met Koryom, a second year University student in management department said the advance team’s return to Juba signaled lasting peace in South Sudan.
South Sudan peace envoy, Gatwech Koak Nyuon also welcomed the advance team return to Juba, adding that the move should be accepted and welcomed by all citizens.
“Now the ball is on our court as citizens. We need to help the parties for implementation because the factions have shown their commitment and willingness to bring peace” he said.
He called on all South Sudanese and friends of south Sudan and as well as on all peace partners around the World to help and work more on advocating for peace.
South Sudan has been shaken by fierce violence since mid-December 2013
when president Kiir accused his former deputy, Riek Machar of attempting coup, an allegation the latter denies.
The conflict which quickly spread to other parts of the country and eventually took ethnic lines claimed the lives of at least 20,000 people and displaced an estimated two million.
The two warring factions are expected to form a transitional government before mid January 2016.
(ST)