Nasir Clashes: A Critical Wake-Up Call for South Sudan’s Fragile Peace

Clashes in Nasir illustrate the fragility of South Sudan’s peace process, highlighting deep disputes that persist despite previous agreements. The SSPDF’s troop deployment has raised concerns among local armed groups, particularly the White Army, leading to conflict. The current security landscape is marked by disunity, undermining national stability. Urgent action from regional and international bodies is needed, along with a focus on dialogue and reform to prevent further escalations.

The violent clashes that occurred in Nasir on March 3rd and 4th, where the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) faced an onslaught from the White Army, highlight the delicate state of South Sudan’s peace process. This escalation underscores persistent tensions despite ongoing negotiations and peace agreements, while political and military actors engage in counterproductive blame games, risking a return to conflict that threatens the advancements made since the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

The SSPDF claimed its presence in Nasir was a normal troop rotation exercise, but speculation suggests it was part of a wider disarmament initiative targeting Nasir and Ulang counties. Resistance from the local armed youth, known as the White Army, erupted due to perceptions that the army’s actions aimed to forcibly disarm communities without prior consultation or security assurances. This miscommunication led to the White Army seizing control of Nasir town, reflecting historical tensions between local groups and government forces.

The Nasir clashes exemplify broader issues within South Sudan’s security sector, highlighting the limited progress in implementing the 2018 peace agreement. While this agreement outlined key provisions on governance and security arrangements, including armed forces unification, its implementation remains inadequate after five years. South Sudan’s fragmented security forces, operating independently, undermine effective governance and erode public trust in national security, ultimately destabilizing the region.

Attempting disarmament without first addressing these foundational issues poses significant risks. The existence of multiple armed factions complicates any security intervention, as differing political and ethnic allegiances shape responses. It becomes critical that any efforts to disarm armed groups arrive within a context of an inclusive and reliable security framework to avoid escalating violence.

The current situation in Nasir may not immediately dismantle the peace process, but it serves as a significant warning signal. South Sudan teeters on the brink of renewed conflict amid unresolved security challenges, political turmoil, and economic struggles. Addressing these issues is essential for maintaining national stability and the integrity of the peace process; otherwise, local conflicts may escalate into a wider crisis.

To avert further destabilization, regional and international actors, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN), must act decisively. Their involvement during the signing of the 2018 peace agreement proves critical, and they must now rigorously promote the complete implementation of this accord, especially emphasizing diplomacy and the unification of armed forces.

Moving forward, South Sudanese leadership must prioritize de-escalation and proactive dialogue with community leaders, including representatives from the White Army, to foster a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Key recommendations include prioritizing security sector reform, fostering inclusive disarmament strategies, enhancing local governance, and securing the support of regional and international institutions to ensure accountability and effective engagement in peacebuilding efforts.

The recent clashes in Nasir signify the precarious state of South Sudan’s peace process and serve as a critical reminder for leaders and peace partners of the need for immediate action. The time is ripe for South Sudanese authorities to display genuine commitment to national unity and the complete execution of necessary security arrangements. If these actions are not prioritized, the credibility of the peace process may erode further, risking a resurgence of violence. Addressing the underlying systemic issues is imperative to ensure a stable and peaceful future for South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org