A combined force of the National Security, Tiger and the South Sudan People’s Defense Force attacked the SPLA-IO base in Bankida-an act that the SPLA-IO Deputy Military Spokesman Col. Lam Paul Gabriel has described as a ‘complete violations of the permanent ceasefire.’

“The SPLA-IO forces tactically withdrew from Bankida on directives from the SPLA-IO High Command,” Gabriel posted on his Facebook page on Tuesday morning.

The SPLA-IO condemned the attack terming it a ‘suicidal act of aggression’ against its forces and positions by forces of the SPLM-IG. The Sudan People’s Liberation Army is now demanding for a complete withdrawal of its combined forces from Bankida.

He further said, “The SPLA-IO strongly condemn this constant suicidal act of aggression against its forces and positions by forces of the SPLM-IG; and, is therefore, demanding a complete withdrawal of this combined force from Banketa as soon as possible to avoid the escalation of this provocative attack.’’

The attack may signal a blow to the implementation of the peace agreement that was hatched in 2018. Nonetheless, SPLA-IO also said they remain committed to the implementation of the security arrangements and the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.

“But it holds the right to self-defense when attacked,” the statement added.