RUMBEK, Lakes State. CEPO has condemned the detention of SPLM-IO officials in Lakes State, calling for their immediate release. Daniel Laat Kon, CEPO’s state coordinator for Lakes State, expressed concerns over the arrests of Deputy Governor Isaiah Akol Mathiang, Member of Parliament Ater Akolde, Minister of Animal Resources and Fisheries Gai Magok, and SPLM-IO Youth League Chairperson Mandela Machiek.
“This detention indicates that the working relationship between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar is at risk,” Laat Kon said.
According to information received by CEPO, the arrests are linked to a statement issued by the SPLM-IO state leadership condemning recent airstrikes by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Nasir, Upper Nile State, which reportedly targeted civilians.
CEPO described the detentions as a violation of the peace agreement and urged the Lakes State government to pursue dialogue instead of suppressing political opinions. “These actions do not reflect political will or a good working relationship in the country. We are saddened by this news,” Laat Kon added.
CEPO’s state coordinator reiterated calls for dialogue to resolve conflicts and stressed that detaining individuals for expressing their political views undermines efforts toward peace and reconciliation.
