Machar rebels release 15 prisoners of war
Rebels from the Sudanese People's Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA IO) have confirmed release and hand over of 15 prisoners of war to Red Cross in Phow State.
According to the group's deputy military spokesperson, Col. Lam Paul Gabriel, the function happened at Kolopach airstrip, New Fangak, Phow State on Sunday morning.
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15 prisoners of war being handed over by the SPLA IO
"This is the third time the SPLA IO is showing compliance with the COH agreement signed last year while other partners have not yet complied,"Col. Lam said in a statement.
A few weeks ago, rebel leader Riek Machar issued a statement in which he promised to release all prisoners of war in compliance to the agreement on the cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians and humanitarian access.
The rebel leader and also former first vice-president is confined in South Africa where he had gone for treatment last year before claiming his life was in danger and asked for protection.
SPLA IO however demands that the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) oversees their leader's release from confinement.
The15 prisoners of war paraded before handing them over.
"The SPLA IO calls upon IGAD to also comply with this article by releasing Dr. Riek Machar who has been in South Africa as a result of this conflict. This will prove commitment and seriousness in trying to bring lasting peace in South Sudan," the group's military wing spokesperson said in a statement on Sunday afternoon.
Sudan People's Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (abbreviated SPLM-IO),split from the main government in 2013 after fighting between forces loyal to president Salva Kiir and then Vice president Dr.Riek Machar broke out.
Thousands of people have since been killed, whereas millions have been displaced.
President Museveni recently called for elections in South Sudan as one of the mechanisms for peace and stability in Africa's youngest nation.
