The Office of the President said SPLA marched to Nasir and Bentiu to defend and protect the civil population within the vicinity of the two strategic locations after SPLM/A in opposition deserted them on May 4.
In a statement obtained by CRN, containing the photograph of Minister in the Office of the President Awan Guol Riak, it is written that the move serves to limit the use of Nasir town as a launching pad by the opposition forces to attack Malakal and threaten oil fields.
The statement reiterated President Salva Kiir’s commitment to respect the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, vowing to regional and international partners especially United States Secretary of State to restrain SPLA forces from unprovoked combat.
The President appealed to civil population to remain calm as the government continues to stabilize the security situation in the country.
President Kiir in the statement called on humanitarian agencies to supplement government’s effort in stepping up lives saving relief aid to the affected population.
The statement added that the President of the Republic believes the only path to peace and stability is dialogue.
It reaffirmed that President Kiir is ready for face-to-face talks with SPLM/A in opposition leader Dr Riek Machar.