Author: Eye Radio | Published: 9 hours ago
Late General Ahmed Ashiek speaks during a past public gathering. General Ashiek and three bodyguards were reportedly killed in Kola, Upper Nile State, following his arrest in Kaka. (Photo: File)
Agwelek commander General Ahmed Ashiek has survived an attempt on his life in northern Upper Nile State and is currently receiving medical treatment at the SSPDF Jamus Division headquarters in Renk, an aide has confirmed to Eye Radio.
According to Bol Akol, an assistant to General Ashiek who spoke to Eye Radio on Saturday, the commander is alive and earlier reports alleging his death are false.
The incident follows statements made on Friday by South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, who distanced the national army from the internal combatants.
He said non-integrated Agwelek fighters operate outside the direct command of the SSPDF and answer strictly to General Johnson Olony.
Maj. Gen. Koang said that while Gen. Olony and a few officers have joined the national army, most of his forces are still awaiting integration.
“General Johnson is still maintaining his force that is not yet integrated into SSPDF,” Maj. Gen. Lul said. “He is still the commander for the force that are not yet integrated. And his force are waiting for integration.”
He added that administrative and disciplinary control over non-integrated personnel remains with their original command.
“On our side, I’m just aware that he was integrated along with a few officers. And the rest that are not integrated into SSPDF, they are answerable to him,” Brig. Gen. Lul said. “If there are issues regarding the force that is not yet integrated, it’s him to answer.”
News of the attempt on General Ashiek’s life and the reported detention of Gen. Sebit Ayik has sparked concern among youths from Fashoda County, who have demanded his release.
“Our patience should not be mistaken for weakness,” the group stated, urging those holding Gen. Ayik to provide due process or release him to avoid further conflict.
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