Jonglei state prepares to receive SPLM-IO advance team

December 23, 2015 (BOR) – The government of South Sudan’s Jonglei state has circulated a message among officials and the public regarding the coming of members of the armed opposition’s (SPLM-IO) advanced team, but the exact date was not availed.

Addressing the state officials on Tuesday, the governor of Jonglei, John Kong Nyuon, said his government expects to receive 61 members of SPLM-IO, urging his cabinet and the public to prepare for their reception as a symbol of peace.

“We have welcomed the arrival of advance team of the SPLM –In Opposition to Juba so that the compromised peace agreement is fully implemented in the country. That is the beginning of implementation of peace, if you see yesterday on TV then you will know that the peace had begun,” he said.

On Monday, an advance team of 150 members of the armed opposition led by Taban Deng Gai arrived in the capital, Juba as part of the implementation of the peace accord.

The 61 members of SPLM-IO expected in Jonglei will reportedly be led by Garang Mabior, son of the country’s fallen leader, although this was not made public by the governor.

“61 members will come to Jonglei state and if they come, they will inform us and we will be ready to receive them,” said Kong.

The governor said South Sudan should adapt peace, which he said, was essential for freedom of movement, health, education and to improve living condition of the citizens.

“Why must receiving this peace and let it be implemented in our hearts?” Kong asked.

Kong further said all the state government officials were told to receive the members of SPLM-IO back into the country in peace as a way towards the implementation of peace.

According to a list that leaked, the 61 members of SPLM-IO contained the names of individuals who joined the SPLM-IO leader Riek Machar and his group when war started.

(ST)