Kenya Calls for Dialogue Among South Sudan Leaders Amid Escalating Violence

Kenya’s President William Ruto has urged South Sudan’s leaders to engage in dialogue amidst escalating violence threatening a fragile peace agreement. Clashes in Upper Nile State have led to numerous fatalities and significant political tensions, prompting concerns over the current stability and ongoing unification efforts among armed groups in the region.

Kenyan President William Ruto has called for peaceful dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to address the escalating violence that threatens to destabilize the existing peace agreement, following a five-year civil war. During conversations with President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, he urged for constructive engagement to enhance stability in the country, as regional efforts are in progress to address the crisis in South Sudan.

The escalating tensions originated from clashes in Upper Nile State, occurring between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and civilian factions known as the White Army in mid-February. The violence in Nasir has increased concerns in Juba, leading to the detention of several senior officials allied with Machar from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition, as tensions continue to rise following the conflict.

Reports indicate that over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries occurred on the outskirts of Nasir, which has now become largely abandoned. Furthermore, Machar’s spokesperson reported the detention of two ministers and multiple military personnel close to Machar, asserting that their arrests have further complicated the political landscape and strained the peace accord established in 2018.

Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed these arrests, accusing the opposing SPLM/A-IO of undermining governmental authority. Machar, who has historically clashed politically with Kiir, has also condemned the removal of his allies from key government roles, arguing that such actions jeopardize the peace agreement aimed at unifying the diverse armed factions into a cohesive national army.

In summary, President William Ruto of Kenya has emphasized the necessity for dialogue among South Sudanese leaders to mitigate ongoing clashes and reinforce the fragile peace agreement. The renewed violence, sparked by recent conflicts, has led to significant arrests and political tensions, with potential consequences for the stability of South Sudan and the ongoing peace process initiated in 2018. Immediate collaborative efforts are crucial for restoring order and securing lasting peace.

Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com