The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) in Upper Nile State strongly condemned the incident that occurred last Saturday in Akoka County. During the event to welcome the newly appointed county commissioner, SPLM-IO cadres were reportedly barred from participating, and some of their T-shirts were confiscated.

Michael John Jok, the state party Secretary-General said on Wednesday that their cadres were en route to a rally to welcome the new county commissioner when they were halted by the police. The reason cited for their exclusion from the event was their attire, specifically the SPLM-IO T-shirts they were wearing.

“On January 13, the Akoka county commissioner, who had taken the oath of office in Malakal, went to his county. As per our tradition, a new official is always welcomed,” Jok explained.

He further explained, “Our cadres, dressed in party T-shirts, joined members of other parties to welcome their commissioner, who happens to be from the SPLM. However, upon arrival, they were chased away by a police commander who asserted that the presence of anyone in SPLM-IO T-shirts was not welcome. Two of our cadres had their T-shirts and caps confiscated immediately, and they have yet to be returned.”

The SPLM-IO official denounced the incident as a violation of the 2018 peace deal and called for the release of the confiscated items. Additionally, he demanded an investigation into those responsible for the incident.

“As SPLM-IO, we condemn the incident and demand the return of the two T-shirts and two caps. We also call for an investigation into the actions of the police commander involved. This concern was raised during our meeting with the state police commissioner and the deputy governor,” Jok emphasized.

He added, “The positive development is that all parties in Upper Nile State, whether SPLM, SPLM-IO, or any other political party, are working together. Our security officers should recognize that we are in the process of implementing a peace deal and approaching elections. Therefore, such disruptions are unnecessary and detrimental to the spirit of collaborative cooperation.”