An SPLM official said that the pardon issued by GoSS president to officers who rebelled before and after the April elections was a gesture to promote reconciliation among the people of south Sudan.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit granted yesterday an amnesty to all armed groups that committed crimes against the people of Southern Sudan, including Major General Gabriel Tanginye, General George Athor Deng, Colonel Gatluak Gai and Colonel Robert Gwang, their officers and men after they laid down their arms unconditionally.The executive orders urged the rebel commanders to rejoin the rank and file of the SPLA forces immediately.
SPLM spokesperson Yien Matthew Chol told SCR News that the presidential pardon was part of GoSS’ strategy to reconcile the south Sudanese.
He added that unity, tranquility and peace were key for Southerners to run the referendum successfully.
Mr Yien added that some rebel commanders called for the pardon although he declined to mention names.