SPLM-in Opposition Clarifies Confusion Surrounding the Arusha ‘Intra-SPLM Dialogue Agreement’

PRESS STATEMENT

January 23, 2015 (SSNA) — The Spokesman of the SPLM/SPLA makes the following statement to our supporters, the masses of our people and the world at large in respect of the Agreement on reunification of the SPLM signed on January 21, 2015 in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania.

The SPLM/SPLA Leadership and membership are convinced that the current political crisis and civil strife in our country are rooted in the SPLM failures. It therefore engaged the other SPLM groups in the Intra-SPLM Dialogue facilitated by Chama Cha Mapenduzi out of conviction that putting the SPLM right by reuniting its groups on a new basis would expedite the IGAD mediated peace process, reconcile our people and create conditions for harmony and socio-economic development.

The agreement is a road map for SPLM reunification. On our part we want to assure our constituency that the SPLM reunification is a process which require commitment, honesty and diligence by all in order to bring peace to our country and reunite and reconcile our people. 

The Agreement provides for reforms and transformation of the SPLM from a liberation movement to a mass based political party representing the interest of all the people of South Sudan.

The Agreement provides for a democratic constitution based on the December 2013 draft to address the contentious issues that precipitated the current crisis in December 2013. It is doleful that acceptance of reforms comes after the massive destruction, loss of life and property. We hope that in future the SPLM leaders shall engage in democratic dialogue to resolve internal political contradictions rather than in military action and violence.

The Agreement removes some of the hurdles to peace negotiations. It addressed in an unequivocal manner the issues of transitional justice, accountability, compensation and reparation. This will create favourable conditions for reconciliation and healing in society.