Paul Malong Awan, chief of general of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), the official army of South Sudan, said Saturday that people should celebrate the country’s fifth anniversary of independence today in their homes.
General Malong, according to lieutenant Colonel Makuac Lual Tong, an executive director in the office of chief of General staff, has asked the civil population in Juba to resume their normal activities at individual levels.
He claimed the security situation in the national capital Juba was under control.
“People should not panic. Those who would like to celebrate the independence day in their houses should go ahead but they should not cause inconveniences to their neigbours. If there is something you want to eat for you with your family and friends to be happy, do it in a good way. Don’t cause inconveniences to others and don’t make your happiness to be a public concern,” said Malong according to Makuac, his executive director.
Makuac said Malong was at the presidential palace when it came under heavy gunfire.
“You know this thing surprised many people, even me. I did not understand until after it became clear the firing was outside the presidential palace and we could see soldiers exchanging fire in two groups, our soldiers from the tiger division and IO forces from the first vice president, Riek Machar. When this happened, the chief of staff had to ask for immediate intervention and more soldiers were deployed to separate those who were fighting,” Makuac explained.