Abale Robinsan

SPLM Official Says Party Can ‘Disown’ 2018 Peace Deal

JUBA – Simon Kun Puoch, third deputy chairman of South Sudan’s ruling SPLM, said the party does not recognize the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS) and can “disown” it entirely.

Speaking over the weekend, Kun claimed the SPLM was not a signatory to the deal, despite ongoing amendments proposed by the transitional government to pave the way for elections. He also warned opposition figures against calling for the release of detained former vice president Riek Machar, emphasizing that only the courts can decide his fate.

The comments come amid controversy over proposed changes to key chapters of the peace agreement, which have faced opposition from Machar’s allies, the peace monitoring body RJMEC, and several international partners.

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🔴 BREAKING NEWS

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has officially been sworn in for a record seventh consecutive term after winning the disputed January elections with more than 70% of the vote.

The 81-year-old leader, who first took power in 1986, will now remain in office until 2031, extending his rule to over four decades.

Heavy security and armoured tanks were deployed across Kampala during the inauguration ceremony. Museveni urged Ugandans to focus on wealth creation, jobs, peace, and development.

Opposition leader Bobi Wine rejected the election results, alleging ballot-stuffing claims denied by electoral officials.

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Justice Minister Michael Makuei Lueth has defended the proposed amendments to South Sudan’s peace agreement, saying they were endorsed by signatory parties under Article 8.4 before cabinet approval.

He criticized opposition lawmakers who walked out of parliament, accusing them of rejecting democratic elections after years of transitional delays.

Makuei, a close ally of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, said the people of South Sudan have long demanded elections to choose their leadership and end the prolonged transition period.

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