Tensions Escalate in South Sudan Following Arrest of Key Political Figures

South Sudan has witnessed an escalation of tensions as government forces arrest key political figures linked to First Vice President Riek Machar. Church leaders have condemned rising violence, calling for dialogue to prevent further civil unrest. The situation remains volatile, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and the delay of national elections to 2026.

Recent developments in South Sudan reveal heightened tensions as government forces apprehended Stephen Par Kuol, the peacebuilding minister and ally of First Vice President Riek Machar. This incident was confirmed by Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, who reported the arrest via social media platform X. Earlier this week, additional arrests were made, including that of the petroleum minister and a deputy army chief, all associated with Machar.

The arrests coincided with violent confrontations in Upper Nile State between national troops and the White Army militia, a group predominantly made up of Nuer, the ethnic group to which Machar belongs. Information Minister Michael Makuei attributed accusations to Machar’s forces collaborating with the militia to launch attacks near the town of Nasir. This context recalls the civil war from 2013 to 2018, which resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and displaced 2.5 million individuals, stemming from conflicts between troops loyal to Kiir and Machar.

Although a peace agreement established in 2018 mitigated rampant warfare, localized clashes remain prevalent, exacerbated by the civil conflict in Sudan, which has increased arms availability. Kuol had previously participated in the 2018 peace negotiations, underlining the significance of his position and involvement.

Church leaders have expressed concern regarding the escalating violence and political instability threatening peace, advocating for dialogue as the essential path forward. Daniel Akech Thiong, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, predicted that the current wave of arrests could incite retaliation from opposition forces against government bases.

Moreover, the South Sudanese government has recently postponed national elections, originally scheduled for December 2023, to December 2026, citing a need for further preparations.

In summary, the arrest of South Sudanese officials close to First Vice President Riek Machar highlights intensifying political strife that risks recurrence of civil conflict. Ongoing violence, fueled by historical grievances and current tensions, necessitates urgent dialogue among state and church leaders, marking a crucial moment for South Sudan’s stability. The government’s postponement of elections further complicates this precarious situation.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com