Kenya Urges Dialogue Among South Sudan Leaders to Resolve Clashes

President William Ruto of Kenya calls for dialogue among South Sudan leaders to mitigate escalating conflicts threatening the peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil war. Recent clashes in Upper Nile State have resulted in casualties and the arrest of several officials, further complicating the political landscape following years of strife.

In light of escalating tensions in South Sudan, Kenyan President William Ruto has urged leaders to prioritize dialogue to restore calm and uphold the fragile peace agreement established after a five-year civil conflict. During discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, Ruto emphasized the necessity for cooperation in addressing the ongoing challenges in the region, as stated in an official communication from the presidency in Nairobi.

Ruto, who occupies the role of Chairman of the East African Community, addressed the situation following recent clashes that erupted in Upper Nile State, significantly between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and civilian militia groups known as the White Army. This turmoil in Nasir, a strategically critical town, has exacerbated tensions in Juba, South Sudan’s capital, resulting in the detention of several senior officials from the SPLM/A-IO, the faction led by Machar.

Reportedly more than 20 individuals have lost their lives amidst this violence on the outskirts of the now-desolate town of Nasir, situated on the border with Ethiopia. In recent developments, Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, reported the detention of two ministers and key military personnel affiliated with Machar, while others face house arrest.

Confirmation of these arrests was provided by Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services Michael Makuei Lueth, who accused the SPLM/A-IO of unlawful attacks against government positions in Nasir. Amidst these unfolding events, Machar has publicly condemned the removal of his allies from government roles, warning that such actions jeopardize the 2018 peace accord intended to conclude the longstanding civil strife and emphasizing the critical need for unity among armed factions to establish a national army.

President William Ruto’s call for dialogue and cooperation highlights the urgent need for South Sudan’s leaders to address ongoing violence and political strife. The escalating clashes and subsequent arrests of government officials underscore the fragility of the peace agreement established in 2018. With continued regional support and dialogue, there lies potential for stabilization and resolution to the conflict in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.thestatesman.com