The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) faction led by Nathaniel Oyet has condemned government plans to replace detained opposition leader Dr. Riek Machar, while expressing openness to renewed dialogue to revive the peace process.
Despite deep divisions within the SPLM/A-IO, Dr. Machar and several key members remain under detention, drawing repeated calls for their release.
Addressing journalists on Saturday, Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, also the Secretary-General of the High-Level Standing Committee (HLSC), stated that the government would not allow the 2018 revitalized peace agreement to be held hostage by ongoing disputes.
Dr. Elia outlined measures to advance the agreement without Machar’s participation, including recognizing a new SPLM-IO faction based in Juba, replacing Machar’s loyalists in major commissions, and fast-tracking preparations for national elections.
He emphasized that renewed dialogue was essential to reinvigorate the peace process:
“This strategy must be a turning point, a catalyst for urgent and decisive action. The government, in collaboration with regional and international partners, must reassert leadership by renewing dialogue, undertaking institutional reforms, and fostering unified national efforts,” Dr. Elia said in a statement.
In a swift response, Nathaniel Oyet, the SPLM/A-IO acting chairperson and acting commander-in-chief, issued a statement condemning the government’s plans to replace Dr. Machar. However, he welcomed the proposal for renewed talks, affirming the faction’s commitment to restoring peace.
“The SPLM/SPLA-IO, as stated in paragraph 8.2 of our strategic response, takes note of the government’s proposal for renewed dialogue. This is a step in the right direction toward resolving outstanding violations and fully implementing the R-ARCSS,” Oyet said.
He further reiterated demands for the unconditional release of Dr. Machar and other political detainees, arguing that their freedom is crucial for meaningful dialogue and sustainable peace.
“In order to achieve lasting peace and stability in the country, we reiterate our call for the unconditional release of H.E Dr. Riek Machar Teny and other political prisoners,” Oyet emphasized.
President Salva Kiir, Dr. Machar, and other leaders signed the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to end a devastating civil war.
However, the implementation of critical elements, such as security reforms, election preparations, and the drafting of a permanent constitution, remains largely stalled.
