South Sudan says rebel leader’s call to arms ‘unacceptable’

JUBA, South Sudan – South Sudan’s government is making its first public response to a rebel leader’s call for a return to armed conflict, saying Riek Machar is placing his own ambition above peace.

In the statement released Wednesday, Machar’s replacement as vice-president, Taban Deng, says the call to arms is “unacceptable.”

Machar fled South Sudan when fighting erupted in the capital, Juba, in July. President Salva Kiir quickly replaced him as vice-president in a unity government under a fragile peace deal.

Machar is now in neighbouring Sudan. He made his call to rebellion over the weekend.

Government spokesman Ateny Wek Ateny in the statement accuses Machar’s forces of attempting “a coup” in July.

South Sudan’s civil war began in December 2013 and has killed tens of thousands of people.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles