Former opposition governor arrives in Juba after defection

A former opposition governor in South Sudan’s Fashoda State has arrived in Juba this morning following his defection to the government.

A former opposition governor in South Sudan’s Fashoda State has arrived in Juba this morning following his defection to the government.

Jukino Fidel Nyikayo told reporters at Juba international airport that he decided to breakaway and return to the government because the opposition group led by opposition leader Riek Machar does not have clear programs.

Nyikayo said he and his group would negotiate with the government over ethnic disputes over Shilluk land in Upper Nile.

“We are sure that things would be addressed within the peace agreement and there is no need to continue with the war. I am back to my SPLM party, so no more complaints,” he said.

The former rebel official who returned to Juba said he defected with a number of officials.

Jukino Fidel had served as opposition governor of Fashoda before being removed by armed opposition leader Riek Machar.

He had also served as Major General in the group’s military wing.