Defections by military officers and 222 others from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) have strengthened South Sudan’s government security services, according to sources.
Led by First Vice-President Riek Machar, the SPLM-IO movement has lost several key officials. The defectors accused Dr. Machar of “anti-peace intentions” and nepotism. They expressed their support for peace efforts and denounced war.
Colonel Joseph Amanda Alias stated that they rejected further conflict after realizing that the President’s forces were more aligned with his goals. David John Kumuri, National Security Service spokesman, confirmed the defection, stating that the movement’s commanders signed an allegiance document to join the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and other organized forces.
The move comes amid recent clashes between SPLM-IO and allied forces. The defectors’ defection signals a possible shift in momentum towards peace in the country.
Source: https://www.radiotamazuj.org/en/news/article/military-officers-allied-to-machar-defect-to-kiir