Press statement: Condemnation of the provocative Press Statement released by the press secretary of the FirstVice President of the Republic, Dr. Riek Machar
Saturday, July 11, 2020 (PW) — On behalf of the entire Padang Community, Padang Community Union (PCU) sincerely applauds Gen. SalvaKiir Mayardit, the President of the Republic of South Sudan for giving the Revitalized Peace Agreement apriority and for the prudent decision in withholding the proposed appointment of Johnson Olony as governor of Upper Nile State.
We highly cherish your great wisdom and discernment in handling such sensitive national issues for the sake of peace and stability of the nation.
Padang Community strongly condemn the provocative Press Statement released by the press secretary of the FirstVice President of the Republic, Dr. Riek Machar, in which he claimed that, “Leaders of Apadang Community in the SPLM/SPLA (IO—–) from Upper Nile State, led by Elijah Awol met the First Vice President…” and that “they registered their unwavering support to Johnson Olony … to become the Governor in Upper Nile State.”
It is unfortunate that such inflammatory and divisive statements could stillcome out from the office of the First Vice President of the Republic, the sole partner in the Revitalized Peace Agreement meant to reconcile and harmonize the Communities for the stability of our beloved Country.
We, call on the Press Secretary in the office of the First Vice President to be professional enough in his job by desisting from such misplaced statements that are potential trigger of internal conflicts in Communities.
Padang Community is aware that few individuals from the Community such as Elijah Awol, have joined different opposition movements on their own right including SPLM-IO.
They may be leaders in their movements, but they donot represent Padang Community in any way and they are not mandated by Padang Community to represent the interest of Padang People.
For the sake of peace, Padang Community strongly appeal to the First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny to seriously consider the concern raised by Padang Community in Upper Nile State over the controversial nomination of Johnson Olony as governor of Upper Nile State knowing that his appointment will not bring peace and stability needed in the State unless otherwise intended.
Finally, Padang Community would like to reaffirm full commitment to the lasting peace and stability of the beloved Nation. The Community pledges loyalty and firm support to the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGOU).
Long live South Sudan
Long live the unity of the patriotic People of South Sudan
Dr. Ramadan Chan Liol, Chairperson
Padang Community Union
Juba, South Sudan