Two senior members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) have been released after spending nearly two years in detention in Lakes State.
The two officials are Dr. Isaiah Akol Mathiang, Chairperson of the SPLM-IO in Lakes State, and Gai Magok, Chairperson of the movement’s Animal Resources Committee.
Their detention followed the Nasir incident, after the two leaders publicly condemned government bombardments in civilian areas of the Greater Upper Nile region.
The SPLM-IO National Youth League confirmed their release in a statement dated September 3, welcoming the development and describing the two as committed members of the opposition movement throughout their detention.
The League’s spokesperson, Cde. Gattiek Wichar, also wished the two leaders a peaceful reunion with their families and loved ones.
Their release comes after nearly two years in custody, although the circumstances surrounding their detention and release were not immediately detailed in the statement.
The Nasir incident and subsequent fighting in parts of the Greater Upper Nile region have remained sensitive issues in South Sudan’s ongoing political and security situation.
