South Sudan Issues Ultimatum to White Army Amid Rising Tensions

South Sudan has issued a warning to the White Army to vacate military zones, including Nasir, or face military action. The government’s stance is reinforced by recent clashes leading to casualties. Uganda has expressed military support for President Kiir, raising concerns about stability and the risk of renewed conflict similar to past civil war events.

South Sudan has issued a strong directive to the White Army, a militia group composed of Nuer members, demanding their immediate withdrawal from Nasir and surrounding military zones. Recent clashes in Upper Nile have escalated tensions, leading to the government’s assertion that the White Army is conducting war against the South Sudanese Defence Forces (SSDF). This warning follows tragic incidents that resulted in the deaths of a UN crew member and an SSPDF general.

Information Minister Michael Makuei expressed the government’s stance clearly, stating that individuals claiming to be civilians must return home or face military consequences. He emphasized, “Any civilian who is in a military zone and refuses to leave will be treated accordingly.” Makuei further delineated that staying in these contested areas would label individuals as combatants, thus justifying military action against them.

The White Army, aligned with Riek Machar’s faction, recently gained control of Nasir, sparking hostilities with government forces. In a strategic military response, South Sudan launched airstrikes on the Nasir airstrip, aiming to obstruct the White Army’s supply routes. Concerns have arisen among UN officials about the parallels between the current crisis and the lead-up to the devastating 2015 civil war, which saw extensive violence and humanitarian devastation.

The ongoing conflict over Nasir, wherein the White Army has successfully briefed SSPDF positions, has intensified security measures, prompting arrests of opposition leaders by the government. In response, Riek Machar has accused his co-governors of oppression, warning of the impending collapse of the fragile peace agreement that governs South Sudan.

Additionally, Uganda has expressed its support for President Kiir by approving the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s army chief, declared any threat to Kiir as a declaration of war against Uganda, reinforcing military capabilities to ensure stability. The South Sudanese government views this deployment as a continuation of an existing bilateral military agreement aimed at combating various adverse forces, including the notorious Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).

This article outlines the escalating tensions between the South Sudanese government and the White Army, emphasizing the government’s warning for the militia group to vacate military zones or face force. It highlights the involvement of Uganda in supporting President Kiir’s administration and raises alarms over the potential resurgence of conflict reminiscent of the previous civil war. The fragile political landscape remains precarious, with implications for civilian safety and regional stability.

Original Source: chimpreports.com