From left to right: Major General Lul Ruai Koang and Colonel Lam Paul Gabriel in the past joint press briefing - File Photo - COURTESY

The SPLA-IO and SSPDF forces have downplayed the latest report warning of a possible outbreak of conflict in the Upper Nile State.

On Thursday, the Small Arms Survey warned of a possible outbreak of war in the area, saying Agwelek fighters and the main opposition forces have been mobilizing this month.

According to the report, Agwelek fighters are allegedly backed by SSPDF, while the SPLA-IO forces are backed by the White Army fighters.

It alleged that Johnson Olony’s Agwelek forces, allied to the SSPDF, are recruiting on the west bank of the White Nile and have moved fighters from Megenis to Wau Shilluk, where their barges are currently moored.

It added that there is a further build-up of Agwelek forces in Pakang, Panyikang county.

The report stated that the Agwelek fighters could target the ports of Atar and Tonga, key trading posts along the White Nile.

It also further stated that in response to the Agwelek mobilization, the SPLM-IO and White Army forces are mobilizing youth in northern Jonglei and southern Upper Nile.

The Small Arms Survey added that the SPLA-IO has reinforced positions along the White Nile where Agwelek offensives are expected.

Speaking to Eye Radio this morning the spokesperson of the SPLA-IO dismissed the report.

Colonel Gabriel Lam Paul says the SPLA-IO has no intention for war.

“We are not for war, let me repeat this very clearly that, the SPLM/A-IO has got no intention of waging war against anybody or the regime,” he told Eye Radio.

“Currently, we have the First Vice President with all our ministers and even we have some state ministers with the regime, now why would we even stabilize our own state?”

“So, of those things are just meant to cause more violence and cause more intimidation in this country.”

Meanwhile, the SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang said he has no substantial information about the report.

“I have no substantial information on my side to support this early warning, especially on the side of SSPDF as the national army, but of course, it is part of their mandate to give early warning.”

When asked about the alleged backing of Agwelek by SSPDF, Gen. Lul said he can’t speak for the militia group allied to the government.

“I can’t speak for Agwelek. I have been saying from time to time that Agwelek is not yet fully under the control and the command of the leadership SSPDF because we have not yet implemented the peace agreement we have signed with them.”

“And if they are recruiting and mobilizing for war it should be the Agwelek leadership to answer those accusation labeled against them.”

The SPLA-IO spokesperson Colonel Gabriel Lam also denied any link with the White Army.

“These are youth who took up arms during this conflict to make sure their properties their people, their children are safe from any foreign body including the SPLA-IO or SSPDF,” Lam said.

“They defend their territories, and as long as they are at risk they fight back. So, SPLA-IO has no connection with the White Army, and we have been always accused which we always defend and people keep continue writing it negatively which is wrong.”

“We don’t own the White Army and it has a different structure and is a communal structure.”

Both the White Army and Agwelek forces are yet to comment on the Small Arms Survey report.