General Oyai Deng Ajak, former chief of staff of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army denied in a statement reports he has joined the faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA-IO) under the former first vice president, Riek Machar.

 Machar, according to reports circulated on social media by government supporters, appointed Oyai on his faction as the chief of staff.

In a statement reacting to the allegations, Oyai, who held other positions after leaving the military, including becoming the minister of  investment and national security, said he would do public once comes for him to join armed opposition as a way to advocate for reforms.

“I am General Oyai Deng Ajak, I saw a post on the social media, this one is a forgery, I didn't join Dr. Riek and I didn't join the armed struggle. When time comes I will make it public to S. Sudanese people.” said Oyai, dispelling the rumour circulated by government officials.

Presidential press secretary Ateny Wek Ateny announced the defection before retracting the allegation, attracting comments questioning his source and reliability of the information.