Dr Francis Nazario was the Ambassador of South Sudan to the United Nations in New York and the Executive Director in the Office of the Minister
 of Foreign Affairs.

He quit his post in June saying he could not serve a government that is “insensitive to the needs and suffering of the people of South Sudan” and “made a mockery of the rule of law.”

More than a month later, the former official answers questions from Radio Tamazuj about his resignation, the political situation in Equatoria, and his current political affiliation.

Dr Nazario, is the statement published in your name on Gurtong on 2 June an authentic letter? Do you still stand by what you said in this statement?

Yes, I was the one who sent my letter to Gurtong, on the 2nd June. It is authentic as it has appeared.

In the letter you claim the Ministry of National Security and Office of the President were undermining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during your time in service there. How and when did this happen – could you provide some examples?

The recall of five ambassador was not a ministry decision; the dismissal of several diplomats at missions was on instructions of the national security.

Since leaving government, have you joined any other political party or group? Are you supporting the SPLM-IO led by former vice president Riek Machar?

I am not member of any party up to this moment.

Regarding the situation on the ground, I prefer SPLM-IO to the government. They are the ones currently championing the call for reform in the government, and openly opposing the current dictatorship, but I don't agree on the use of military means.

I stand by the talks mediated by IGAD, I would like to see it resuming and reaching a settlement.

SPLM-IO claims to have a vision to rule the whole country, but are they even organized? How do you see them – as internally united or divided?

I don't have any idea whether they are internally organized or not, but their statement seems uniting many people around a transitional government with mandate for reform.

How do you see the political situation in Equatoria currently? In respect to federalism, is the region fragmenting or uniting around this issue?  

The situation in Equatoria is becoming disturbing given the fact the three governors stand for federalism and the President does not. How far are they going to go? The three governments said they are actually talking on behalf of their people in their states, which means they have all their people supporting them in coming out openly. The region is united around the call for federalism.

What are the possible consequences of political tensions in Equatoria – could this region be dragged into conflict as well?

Instability, some people from Equatoria may disappear in the hand of the security, as they are arresting many these days. I don’t think it will bring war, but it has be handled by the leadership of the government in a wise way, not by intimidation.

In one sentence – What is your message to the people of South Sudan?

Keep united, respect each other, accept the other even if he has a different opinion. Don't resort to violence to solve your political issues. Learn democracy. South Sudan can take all of us.

File photo 

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