South Sudan’s government on Monday confirmed the authenticity of a recently leaked audio tape recording conversations the former army chief Paul Malong had with rebel commanders on the ground to fight Kiir’s government.
According to the leaked recording, Malong had communication with Lt. Col. Chan Garang Lual in Equatoria, Manut Yel Lual and Kuol Athiang in Aweil East State and Captain Bak in Wau.
Speaking at a press conference in Juba today, Ateny Wek Ateny, South Sudan presidential spokesman said Malong’s leaked audio recording posted on social media was genuine.
“We took measures to verify it, so we can confirm without reservations that the audio bound the true voice of General Paul Malong,” the presidential spokesman said.
“No matter what was the intention behind the leak, it is to be taken positively that the person or persons who did it, were doing it in an attempt to protect the national interest of South Sudan,” he added.
Ateny said the former army chief is trying to mislead the people of South Sudan by trying to deny his true voice. “General Malong was speaking to the known voices that can be identified by any person,” he said.
Kiir’s office urged all soldiers who took up arms against the government on orders of the former military chief Paul Malong to refrain from violence. Ateny reiterated his government’s commitment to bring about peace in South Sudan.