South Sudan Government Releases Political Opponents Amid Ongoing Tensions

The South Sudanese government has released eight political opponents from the SPLM-IO party, while 20 others remain detained, including notable leaders. Recent governance changes have led to unrest in Nasir, and the country is set to hold elections in December 2023, amid historical ethnic divisions following its independence from Sudan in 2011.

The South Sudanese government has released eight political opponents, specifically members of the South Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM-IO), as confirmed by sources affiliated with opposition leader and Vice President Riek Machar. Notably, however, 20 additional individuals remain detained, including Oil Minister Puot Kang and Deputy Chief of Army Staff Gabriel Doup Lam.

The recent appointment modifications of opposition figures in Upper Nile state, as mandated by the 2018 Peace Agreements and implemented by President Salva Kiir, incited violence in the town of Nasir. This unrest has led to a new wave of arrests.

Following several years of civil conflict, South Sudan’s political factions signed a peace treaty in 2018. In August 2022, they agreed to prolong the transition period, originally set to conclude in February 2025, while elections are planned for December of this year after several delays.

This northeast African nation gained independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011. Although the historic referendum brought about self-determination, it also triggered political fragmentation and deep ethnic divisions that could resurface during upcoming elections.

In summary, the release of eight SPLM-IO members by South Sudan’s government amidst the ongoing political turmoil highlights the tense atmosphere following changes in governance. As the nation approaches upcoming elections, the unresolved detention of significant political figures and the historical ethnic divisions may impact the electoral process and political stability.

Original Source: www.plenglish.com