Release of South Sudan Peacebuilding Minister Amidst Rising Tensions

Authorities in South Sudan have released the peacebuilding minister, Stephen Par Kuol, amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions following the arrests of key officials linked to Vice President Riek Machar. The conflict in the region can be traced back to clashes in Nasir involving the White Army militia, with ongoing implications for peace in the nation.

On a recent development in South Sudan, forces loyal to President Salva Kiir have released the peacebuilding minister, Stephen Par Kuol, who is a close associate of First Vice President Riek Machar. This decision follows an escalation of tensions marked by the arrests of several senior officials, including the petroleum minister and a deputy military chief, potentially threatening the peace agreement that concluded a civil war between supporters of Kiir and Machar.

The release of Minister Kuol occurred early in the morning on Friday, as stated by Machar’s spokesman, Puok Both Baluang. However, the petroleum minister and the deputy military head remain detained. Furthermore, security personnel were observed surrounding Machar’s residence, although he managed to conduct his business at his office despite the tense atmosphere.

Conflicts have reportedly erupted in the northern town of Nasir, where national forces clashed with the White Army militia, predominantly comprised of individuals from the Nuer ethnic group, which supports Machar. Notably, the White Army had previously allied with Machar’s forces during the civil war from 2013 to 2018, which predominantly involved Dinka troops loyal to Kiir.

The government has not provided comments regarding the recent detentions. However, Minister of Information Michael Makuei has accused Machar’s forces of collaborating with the White Army in recent attacks on military positions. Macar’s party has refuted these claims, insisting they were not involved.

Although a peace agreement in 2018 formally ended the five-year conflict responsible for countless deaths, inter-communal violence remains a persistent issue in South Sudan. In response to the unrest in Upper Nile State, where Nasir is situated, officials from regional bodies, including IGAD and the African Union, convened with Machar to advocate for a restoration of peace in the region.

In conclusion, the release of South Sudan’s peacebuilding minister highlights ongoing tensions within the government, following the recent arrests of several officials associated with Vice President Riek Machar. While the peace agreement concluded a devastating civil war, challenges persist, evidenced by clashes in Nasir and accusations from government officials. Efforts by regional organizations to urge calm are crucial as the nation navigates these complex dynamics.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com