South Sudan’s former vice-president has revealed his plan to halt oil revenue payments to the central government in Juba.
Riek Machar says forces under his command will divert oil revenues accrued from the country’s oil wells.
The development comes following confirmation that Machar’s forces have taken control of the oil rich unity state, from where he hails.
He said no money would go to the government in Juba, explaining that his group plans to divert oil revenues and deal directly with Sudan in implementing the September 2012 cooperation agreements, as they are in control of the concerned states.
“We will establish an extra account to which the oil revenues will be remitted for the economic interest of the people of South Sudan”, said Machar.
Machar added that his forces would protect oil companies and workers in the two oil-producing states of Upper Nile and Unity.
Machar has also criticised Kiir’s government for allegedly backing the shutdown of oil companies, after rebels took control of the oil fields, saying the move would affect people’s livelihoods.
Machar called on oil companies in the area to continue their operations under the protection of his forces.
Since Machar escaped from Juba six days ago, his forces have made significant gains and are now in control of Jonglei and oil-rich Unity state.
Machar also claims that SPLA Division 7 in Upper Nile State is aligning itself with him.
“Division seven under Major General Lual Chol has today (Monday) declared its loyalty”.
The claim that portions of Division 7 have defected comes on the same day that fighting broke out amongst elements of Division 7 in several counties in Upper Nile State.
More violence is expected in some remaining areas still under government control, including the capital, Malakal.
While addressing the country’s national legislative assembly, the president conceded his government had lost control over two of the country’s 10 states but insisted he was still in control over the majority of the country.