By Sabri Dibaco
Jonglei State Caretaker Governor Maj. Gen. Moses Majok Gatluak has called on forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) to immediately withdraw from Pieri and Motot, accusing them of advancing into areas under government control and threatening ongoing peace efforts in Northern Jonglei.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Caretaker Governor on Sunday, the governor urged the opposition forces to exercise restraint, return to their previous positions, and allow dialogue to continue as efforts to resolve tensions in the region proceed.
“The Office of the Caretaker Governor therefore calls on SPLM/A-IO forces to immediately withdraw from those areas (Pieri and Motot) and return to where they previously stayed to allow the peaceful process to proceed without further disruption,” the statement read.
The appeal follows the governor’s recent reception event, during which he called on forces to remain in their respective positions while political and community efforts to resolve the tensions through dialogue continued.
According to the governor’s office, the reported movement of SPLA-IO forces into Pieri and Motot could undermine the dialogue initiative and increase insecurity in Northern Jonglei.
The office accused the opposition forces of taking advantage of the governor’s peace initiative to advance into the two areas, which it described as being under government control.
“Instead, SPLM/A-IO forces try to exploit this peace initiative by invading Pieri and Motot areas, which are under government control. This may undermine the governor’s call for dialogue and threaten ongoing peace efforts,” the statement said.
The governor’s office said the appeal was intended to protect civilians, prevent further insecurity, and create an environment conducive to peaceful negotiations.
It also urged the forces to halt further military advances and prioritise civilian protection amid continued tensions in the region.
“The Caretaker Governor of Jonglei State remains firmly committed to resolving the situation through dialogue. It urges SPLM/A-IO forces to exercise restraint, halt further military advances, and prioritise the safety and protection of civilians,” the statement added.
The office emphasised that all parties should respect the dialogue process and avoid actions that could escalate the situation or put civilian lives at risk.
“Peaceful dialogue must be respected, military escalation must be avoided, and civilian lives must remain our collective priority,” it said.
The governor’s office further appealed to political leaders, community representatives, and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in Northern Jonglei.
It called for collective action to ensure that ongoing tensions are resolved peacefully and that civilians are protected from the potential consequences of further military movements.
The statement did not provide further details about the reported movements of SPLA-IO forces in Pieri and Motot. It also did not include a response from the opposition forces regarding the allegations.
The situation underscores the importance of dialogue and restraint as efforts continue to address tensions in Northern Jonglei.