The President of the Republic expressed confidence to militarily defeat Machar’s forces.
The Press Secretary in the Office of the President Ateny Wek Ateny told journalists in Juba on Wednesday that the government army was brave to crush the rebels inside and outside the country.
He recalled their victory over Machar’s uprising against SPLM/SPLA in 1991.
Mr Ateny said President Kiir Salva Mayardit urged citizens to provide information to the government to combat imminent attacks.
The official said citizens should defeat psychological war and huge exodus in and across the country by having courage and confidence in their government’s strength.
The Press Secretary said President Kiir sent condolences to the families of 200 people drowned on Sunday while fleeing fighting in Malakal.
He said the President promised to provide humanitarian assistance to the affected people, without giving details.
Mr Ateny dismissed rebels’ claim of regaining control of Malakal.
He refuted media reports that Defence Minister Kuol Manyang Juuk was captured by rebels.