January 5, 2011 (JUBA) – South Sudan army signed a permanent ceasefire agreement with insurgents loyal to General George Athor who rebelled following allegations of fraud and rigging during gubernatorial elections in Jonglei last April.
The renegade general accused recently tow senior SPLM leaders from his region of hindering efforts to reconcile with Juba and end his rebellion before a referendum on independence the semi autonomous region will hold within four days.
The end of violence in the largest southern Sudan state will allow a peaceful referendum. The General who is accused of being supported by Khartoum repeated several times to Sudan Tribune he was supportive the historical vote.
“I want to thank comrade Athor for his tireless effort to make this agreement a success.” said Brigadier General Michael Majur, who signed the agreement for the south’s Sudan Peoples’ Liberation Army (SPLA).
“This is an important step towards establishing peace in south Sudan,” said Major General Abraham Thon, who signed the ceasefire on behalf of Athor. “This will help our people allow the benefits of good security.”
The signing ceremony was attended by the vice- president of southern Sudan government Riek Machar and the Episcopal Archbishop of Sudan, Daniel Deng Bul.
The Southern Sudan President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, last month issued a presidential decree to tasking a committee to discuss with the renegade to ways end his rebellion. The committee headed by Archbishop Daniel Deng Bul.
described it as “sad and unfortunate development,” said Colonel Philip Aguer Panyang, SPLA official spokesperson.
(ST)