IGAD Mediators have accused the SPLA of restricting the movement of its monitoring team in Bentiu since the resumption of fighting in the area last week.

In a statement, it says the forces have blocked their movement beyond the Rubkona airfield, some 2.7 Km from the UNMISS camp.

IGAD says it made verbal and written requests to the government to allow access to the area, but they have remained unanswered.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the SPLA, Colonel Philip Aguer, says the SPLA has not received any complaint from IGAD.

“I didn’t get that complaint but I doubt whether the SPLA will hinder the movement of IGAD,” Col Aguer told Eye Radio.

“Let them bring that complaint through the SPLA oversight [committee] representing IGAD monitoring team here in Juba.”

IGAD noted that the military offensives and restriction of movements are violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.

It reminded the warring Parties of their obligation to honor the agreement.