Introduction to the Situation
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) has denied reports that its leader, Dr. Riek Machar, who is also the First Vice President of South Sudan, is being transferred from his residence in Juba to Wau Central Prison. These rumors started circulating on social media, claiming that Dr. Machar was being relocated to the detention facility in Wau.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Background to the Rumors
The rumors emerged on Tuesday through a prominent Facebook page, citing unnamed sources. However, a senior member of the SPLM-IO’s National Liberation Council, Dut Majokdit, quickly denied the allegations. Speaking exclusively, Majokdit clarified that Dr. Machar remains under house arrest at his residence in the capital Juba.
Current Status of Dr. Machar
“That is not true,” Majokdit stated. “The Chairman and Commander-in-Chief is at his house in Hai Hamarat. This claim that he is being transferred to Wau prison is completely false.” He urged the public to ignore what he described as baseless speculation, saying, “Just disregard these rumors circulating on social media.” Dr. Machar has been under house arrest since March this year, following a breakdown in relations between the government and the SPLM-IO.
Reasons Behind the Detention
The exact reasons behind his detention remain unclear, but it is widely believed to be linked to the confrontation between armed militia perceived to be his loyalists and the South Sudan People Defense in the Upper Nile town of Nasir. Despite ongoing efforts by regional and international actors to mediate the crisis and secure access to the detained First Vice President, attempts to meet Dr. Machar have so far been unsuccessful.
International Efforts to Resolve the Crisis
Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was appointed as a special envoy by Kenyan President William Ruto to help resolve South Sudan’s political deadlock, was expected to hold talks with Machar during a visit to Juba. However, his planned engagement was postponed after Juba required that he first consult with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. A high-level delegation from the African Union known as the “Panel of the Wise” also traveled to Juba to assess the situation and push for dialogue among political stakeholders.
Access to Dr. Machar
According to sources familiar with the visit, the delegation’s request to meet Dr. Machar was denied by the authorities, further fueling concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding his detention. The ongoing restrictions on Machar’s movements and limited access by mediators have raised fresh questions about the commitment of South Sudan’s leadership to the peace process as the country prepares for its first post-independence elections scheduled for later this year.
Call to Action
The SPLM-IO has called on regional and international guarantors of the 2018 peace agreement to intervene and ensure that all parties uphold their obligations, including the protection of political freedoms and the right to participate in national dialogue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rumors about Dr. Riek Machar being transferred to Wau prison have been denied by the SPLM-IO. The situation surrounding his detention remains unclear, and international efforts to resolve the crisis have been met with resistance. As South Sudan prepares for its first post-independence elections, it is essential that the country’s leadership commits to the peace process and ensures that all parties can participate freely. The international community must continue to pressure the government to uphold its obligations and protect the rights of all citizens, including Dr. Machar.
