The Acting Chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), and First Deputy Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, has issued a suspension order for four senior officials within the movement. They are accused of plotting to replace Dr. Riek Machar, the First Vice President, who is currently under house arrest.
Rt. Hon. Patrick Nathaniel Pierino confirmed the suspension of the four members, claiming they were involved in activities aimed at creating division within the SPLM-IO and undermining the peace agreement (R-ARCSS). The suspended officials are alleged to have been mobilizing to replace Dr. Machar in a bid to support the SPLM-IG and disrupt the unity of the movement.
The suspended members include Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, National Minister of Peacebuilding, and former member of the Political Bureau and National Liberation Council of SPLM-IO.
Hon. Agok Makur Kur, National Member of Parliament, and member of the National Liberation Council and Hon. Ding Lam, member of the Political Bureau, National Liberation Council, and National Member of Parliament, representing SPLM-IO.
Other official is Hon. Luke Thompson Thoan, member of the National Liberation Council and a prominent party member.
Rt. Hon. Patrick Nathaniel Pierino emphasized that the individuals involved will face a disciplinary committee formed in accordance with the SPLM-IO’s core documents.
In a phone interview with Catholic Radio Network, Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, one of the suspended officials, acknowledged the suspension but confirmed that he was preparing an official response. “I am currently drafting a statement, and you will have it within an hour,” he said.
The suspensions come after Dr. Riek Machar’s house arrest in March, further escalating tensions within the parties to the revitalized agreement.
, and First Deputy Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, has issued a suspension order for four senior officials within the movement.){kind=link}