A famous South Sudanese businessman has formed a rebellion to fight against the government. According to radio Tamazuj reports, Kerbino Wol Agok founded the rebel group on Friday, 5th June. The new armed opposition is called 7th October Movement.
Wol named it after the day they rioted in the National Security Facility in 2018. He was detained by National Security Service in April 2018 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly starting a revolt at National Security Service Headquarters, Blue House. He was set free in January 2020 through a president pardon.
Through 7th October Movement, Wol says he wants to ‘liberate South Sudan’ from what he describes as ‘corrupt and genocidal government.
“When there is lack of will from the leadership, you cannot have peace. Peace [agreements] remain violated, people are dying day and night,” he said.
He pointed out that many members of his group fought during the liberation war under the leadership of late Dr. John Garang de Mabior.
“Our cause is to mobilize a Citizens’ Revolution that is democratic, participatory, and rooted in the fundamental concepts of human freedom and equality. Our cause is to unleash the energy of the young generation of our country. Our cause is to make real the promises of national liberation and independence,” the group said in a manifesto extended to Radio Tamazuj.
Wol told South Sudan in Focus on the Voice of America that his rebellion is based in South Sudan.
“I am deep in the sacred land of this country. I am in the home soil of the country standing in solidarity with my fellow citizens,” he said.