South Sudan Faces Renewed Threat of Civil War, According to UN Envoy

The UN has warned that South Sudan is at risk of falling back into civil war due to political tensions and ethnic divisions. Following the postponement of critical elections and ongoing conflicts involving the rebel White Army, the situation remains precarious. UN envoy Nicolas Haysom emphasized the need for unity and dialogue between President Kiir and Vice President Machar to avoid further escalation.

The United Nations has expressed grave concerns regarding the potential resurgence of civil war in South Sudan. UN envoy Nicolas Haysom criticized the government’s abrupt delay of a major peace initiative, calling the nation’s current circumstances “dire.” He emphasized that true progress towards peace is contingent upon President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar prioritizing the needs of their citizens over personal interests.

Since its independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant challenges, culminating in a civil war that erupted in December 2013. This conflict was predominantly fueled by ethnic tensions between Kiir’s Dinka and Machar’s Nuer factions, resulting in over 40,000 fatalities. Although a peace agreement in 2018 fostered a national unity government, promised elections have been delayed multiple times, contributing to ongoing instability.

Tensions have recently escalated due to clashes in northern regions, with the rebel group known as the White Army involved in violent confrontations with government forces. A particularly alarming incident involved the death of a South Sudanese general during an attack on a UN helicopter tasked with troop evacuation, reflecting the deteriorating security situation.

Haysom warned that as electoral deadlines loom, the political environment is increasingly fraught with distrust and rivalry. The absence of mutual trust between Kiir and Machar hinders effective leadership and the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. He also criticized the pervasive spread of misinformation and hate speech, which exacerbates ethnic divisions and fear among the populace.

The risk of sectarian violence is a significant concern for the UN, and Haysom noted that should conflict reignite, South Sudan could experience horrors similar to those witnessed in earlier conflicts. To avert this potential crisis, the UN peacekeeping mission is engaging in rigorous diplomatic efforts with both regional and international stakeholders, advocating for dialogue and a return to the peace deal. Haysom urged that it is vital for Kiir and Machar to engage constructively to resolve their disputes without further military conflicts.

In conclusion, South Sudan is at a critical juncture, facing the possibility of renewed civil strife as ethnic tensions and political rivalries escalate. The UN underscores the necessity for President Kiir and Vice President Machar to prioritize negotiations and adhere to previous peace agreements. The international community’s involvement remains crucial to fostering dialogue and preventing a descent into violence.

Original Source: apnews.com