South Sudan’s ethnic Shilluk rebel factions sign unity deal
April 22, 2016 (JUBA) – Armed groups South Sudan’s ethnic Shilluk with different political ideologies and allegiance are gathering in Fashoda to agree on a unified political and military position based on how to present their grievances and to galvanize support to advance and achieve the cause of their rebellion.
“It is true, very correct information. There have been preparations to unite the ranks of our people in different political camps, regardless of political orientations and allegiance. It is time to put away these petty differences and exert efforts on common interests,” a legislator who did not want to be identified for fear of reprisal told Sudan Tribune.
He said due to the sensitivity of the matter and possibility of being accused of supporting rebellion against the government in which he serves, he told Sudan Tribune during an exclusive interview on Friday in the national capital, Juba.
The legislator further revealed that the unity conference has the backing of different segments of the community.
“Everyone who is now involved in this peace and unity process has a vision of uniting our people. It is no longer about individuals but the fate of people, our land and our history as Chollo people,” he said.
Another prominent figure from the community also confirmed that a conference will discuss the problems between groups and is expected to end by agreeing on a unified position.
“The main message we are anticipating to come out from this process is the unity of our people, because the unity of our people is the future. There has to be a future together as people,” the official who has held several military and ministerial portfolios until he lost his assignment in the 23 July, 2013, mass reshuffle without new assignment.
The official, himself a former minister, said there will be a document and a statement that will serve as a platform for any future initiatives and talks at the end of this process.
He denied that the efforts were part of projects by individuals to solicit financial or any other kind of support from the donor communities.
The initiative brings together different groups comprising a faction under the command of Johnson Olony who allied himself to armed group under the leadership of Riek Machar.
Yoanes Okich, an independent commander commanding separate rebel factions and Robert Gwang Amum, commissioner of Fashoda county but who, by the circumstances is in the territory controlled by the forces loyal to Johnson Olony.
Amum is seen as being totally opposed to forging alliance with forces predominantly other ethnic groups. He prefers maintaining a separate command force with political and military alliance with others.
The 21 April 2016 document, copy of which was obtained by Sudan Tribune, also bears the signature of the deposed Shilluk king, Kwong Dak Padiet.
The traditional king was removed from his position and replaced with a new face from within the royal family on the ground that he had neglected his role as the prominent community figure and allegedly for siding with the government on the creation of 28 states at the expense of his community.
(ST)