Armed group in Eastern Equatoria rejects appointment of 28 state governors

December 30, 2015 (JUBA) – An armed group operating in Eastern Equatoria state against South Sudanese government has rejected the creation and appointment of 28 state governors by president Salva Kiir, saying the action will be resisted.

The group under the banner of South Sudan Federal Party (SSFP) with military wing, calling itself South Sudan Armed Forces (SSAF) warned that the 28 states would incite ethnic war over border demarcation in the course of implementation.

It warned that if the demarcation goes as per the new presidential order, thousands of people all along the frontier will be uprooted from their homes and the result of which will “not be taken “lightly.”

“For this reason the movement calls that the proposed demarcation of the boundary line be effectuated in compliance with the provisions of the transitional constitution and will of the people. It cannot be otherwise to meet only the interest of few individuals at the expense of the majority,” it said in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune on Wednesday.

“Anything short of this will never be tolerated as it is a practical political self-serving for ruling clique to prolong their lust for power. Any attempt to impose it is bound to provoke serious backlash,” it added.

The group declared itself in September this year after the signing of the peace agreement between president Salva Kiir and opposition leader, Riek Machar, to end 21 months of conflict. It operates around Torit, the capital of the abolished Eastern Equatoria state.

Their concern over creation of 28 states unilaterally by the government is being shared by alliance of opposition political parties, armed opposition faction (SPLM-IO), former detainees and regional and internal partners in the peace process.

It is not clear whether the decision will be reversed or the opposing factions will succumb to the action as the government goes ahead with its implementation despite the condemnations.

(ST)