First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar - courtesy

The SPLM-IO is appealing for regional and international intervention to resolve differences with the SPLM-IG after it suspended its members’ participation in the meetings of the security mechanisms.

On Tuesday, the SPLM/SPLM-IO Political Bureau, Chaired by Dr. Riek Machar approved the move.

The peace party has accused SSPDF of carrying what it calls unprovoked attacks on its military bases including the cantonment sites and unified forces training centers.

The areas the party cited are; Morota training center in Kajo-keji County, Kaljak training center in Rubkone County, Turu cantonment site in Maiwut County, Liengji cantonment site in Maban County, Pieri cantonment site in Uror County.

Others are Namatina cantonment site in Najero County, Mir-Mir cantonment site in Koch County among others.

It argued the attacks have resulted into the displacement of civilians and destruction of properties.

The main opposition peace party stated that members of the former government do not regularly attend the security meetings and sometimes sent officers who are not members of the security mechanisms.

Allegations, refuted by the SSPDF adding that its forces were acting in self-defense.

The army also dismissed the opposition’s claims over its participation in the security mechanism meetings.

However, speaking to Eye Radio, the spokesperson of First Vice President Riek Machar, said there is an urgent need for regional and international bodies to resolve the concerns raised by the party.

Puok Both Baluang believes, involving Troika, IGAD, the African Union and neighboring countries may create an opportunity for dialogue between the main parties to resolve these issues.

“We believe that, there should be a higher intervention not to leave the parties themselves to dialogue and try to discuss these issues because the presidency, part of them they are the one already in the launching of the attacks on our cantonments sites”, Pouk Both told Eye Radio on Wednesday in Juba.

Both says SPLM-IO remains committed to full implementation of the revitalized peace agreement.