South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Dismisses Ambassador Amid Political Crisis

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has fired Ambassador Monica Achol Abel amidst escalating political tensions in the country. Her dismissal aligns with Kiir’s pattern of late-night firings and raises concerns about the fragile peace process in South Sudan, which faces challenges due to internal power struggles and violent unrest. Regional diplomatic efforts continue in an attempt to stabilize the situation.

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has unexpectedly terminated the appointment of Monica Achol Abel as the ambassador to Kenya, a decision made merely four months after her credentials were presented to Kenyan President William Ruto. This dismissal, announced via a government source and state television, aligns with Kiir’s usual practice of executing late-night firings, particularly on Mondays and Wednesdays, though no official reasoning has been provided.

The timing of Ms. Abel’s dismissal coincides with escalating political unrest in Juba, especially concerning the increasingly strained relationship between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The armed forces currently surround Machar’s residence, casting doubt on the stability of the coalition government. Abel’s removal is part of a broader crackdown by South Sudan’s National Security Service (NSS) on political figures, resulting in recent arrests of key officials, including Minister of Peacebuilding Stephen Par Kuol.

On Thursday, NSS operatives detained Minister Kuol, adding to the tension that stems from the prior night’s arrest of Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol. Observers view these developments as indicative of a growing internal power struggle within the ruling party. Simultaneously, there are increasing concerns regarding the future of South Sudan’s fragile peace process, which has consistently struggled to maintain momentum despite previous agreements.

Kenyan President William Ruto noted the ongoing crisis during his engagement with both Kiir and Machar. He stated, “I implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the country,” emphasizing the need for regional support through IGAD’s Strategic Framework. Ruto further informed both leaders that regional consultations are in progress to find viable solutions to the situation in South Sudan.

South Sudan first descended into civil war in December 2013, ignited by political rifts within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). Ethnic divisions have exacerbated the violence, leading to widespread displacement and suffering. Although several peace agreements have been made, including those in 2015, 2017, 2018, and the most recent in June 2024, they have not successfully stabilized the nation.

In summary, the abrupt dismissal of Ambassador Monica Achol Abel by President Salva Kiir underscores the rising political tensions in South Sudan. The deteriorating relationship between Kiir and Machar, combined with internal crackdowns on government officials, raises significant concerns for the nation’s peace process. With ongoing regional efforts led by President William Ruto to foster dialogue, the future of South Sudan remains precarious as the country grapples with unresolved conflict and instability.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke