S. Sudanese official warns anti-peace elements in N. Liech state
March 31, 2016 (BENTIU) – A South Sudanese official from the newly created Northern Liech has warned anti-peace groups in the region against taking the law into their hands.
Lam Tunguar Kueigwong, the state minister of information told Sudan Tribune bandits have resorted to ambushing civilians in areas controlled by both government and members of Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO).
He claimed such groups were confusing the masses, which could derail the peace deal signed by the armed opposition leader, Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir last year.
“We have realised that there are groups of criminal gangs that operate among us and attack and kill civilians and army. As the state government, we are working with the central government and the SPLA-IO to make sure peace is priority,” he added.
He urged civilians to cooperate with government and the armed opposition to report those criminal activities.
“It is time for peace and our brothers are on the way for the peace implementation. Those who are killing and raid civilians properties in the name of SPLA-IO and the government must refrains from these criminal, otherwise if they are found doing barbaric attacks, they must be responsible for consequences,” said Tungwar.
In an interviews with Sudan Tribune on Thursday, the minister said it was time to end deadly conflicts and urged South Sudanese to cooperate and bring peace to the country.
“It is time for our people to cultivate; it is time for our people to breath in peace. And our message must be about peace and there is no way to prolong war,” he said.
However, Tungwar admitted there were elements within government and the opposition forces working against peace. He urged the groups to distance themselves from such ideology.
“We are calling on those opposing peace to be careful on all the crimes they are doing. Should you be found doing those ill-killing, you will face the result,” he stressed.
The official said it was time for all South Sudanese to unite and work against those opposing the peace implementation ahead of the transitional government formation.
(ST)