SPLM-IO Suspension from Peace Process Highlights South Sudan’s Political Tension

The SPLM-IO party in South Sudan has suspended its role in the peace process following heightened tensions between leader Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir. The arrests of several SPLM-IO officials and accusations of militia connections further complicate the situation. Humanitarian concerns rise as 50,000 people are displaced amid fears of a resurgence in civil conflict, with implications from the Sudan crisis affecting regional stability.

A significant political development has occurred in South Sudan, as a major party in the coalition government, the SPLM-IO, announced on Tuesday that it would suspend its participation in a crucial aspect of the 2018 peace agreement. This decision follows a deterioration in relations between the party leader, Riek Machar, and President Salva Kiir, exacerbated by recent clashes and the arrest of several SPLM-IO officials.

The 2018 peace agreement was instrumental in concluding a five-year conflict between forces loyal to Kiir and Machar, who is now the First Vice President leading the SPLM-IO. However, the relationship between the two leaders has become increasingly strained, especially after recent violent confrontations in the eastern region of the country.

Recent incidents include security forces detaining SPLM-IO officials, notably the petroleum minister and the deputy army chief, following attacks by the White Army militia. The government has alleged that the SPLM-IO has ties to this militia, primarily composed of ethnic Nuer youth who were allied with Machar during the previous civil war. The SPLM-IO firmly denies these claims.

Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, the SPLM-IO’s deputy chairman, announced the party’s suspension from security arrangements tied to the peace process until the detained officials are released, stating, “The ongoing political witch-hunts continue to threaten the very essence and the existence of the (peace deal).”

The conflict in Upper Nile state has significantly impacted the civilian population, with an estimation of 50,000 people displaced since late February; among these, 10,000 have sought refuge in Ethiopia, as reported by United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator Anita Kiki Gbeho.

United Nations peacekeeping chief Nicholas Haysom has expressed concerns regarding potential regression into civil war, noting in an address to the African Union that hate speech and mis/disinformation are widespread, raising the risk of ethnic conflict. Analysts highlight that the turmoil in neighboring Sudan has contributed to the peace process’s instability, with South Sudan facing diminishing oil revenues and escalating regional violence.

Alan Boswell of the International Crisis Group remarked on the spillover effects from the Sudan conflict, indicating that violence from Upper Nile could extend to the capital, Juba, making the situation increasingly precarious.

In summary, the SPLM-IO’s withdrawal from peace arrangements indicates escalating tensions within South Sudan’s political landscape, stemming from deteriorating relations between its leaders. The ongoing detentions of SPLM-IO members jeopardize the peace accord established in 2018. With significant humanitarian implications and growing concerns of ethnic violence, the situation necessitates urgent attention to restore stability and support displaced populations.

Original Source: www.usnews.com