South Sudan’s Tensions Rise Amid Machar’s Arrest and Calls for Peace

South Sudan faces escalating tensions following Vice President Riek Machar’s arrest, accused of conspiracy by the government. Despite fears of breaking the fragile 2018 peace deal, officials assert the agreement remains intact. Calls for dialogue are growing, emphasizing the need for adherence to existing peace accords to avoid civil unrest. International intervention may be necessary to resolve the impending crisis.

South Sudan’s government has accused Vice President Riek Machar of conspiracy, escalating tensions within the nation. The opposition group, Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), is calling for his immediate release as the fragile peace established in 2018 is under threat. Currently, negotiations and dialogues are critical to maintaining stability amid ongoing accusations against Machar for engaging with opposition entities.

Machar was arrested under the directive of President Salva Kiir, who claims that Machar has been in contact with various opposition figures since early March. Despite these serious charges, Information Minister Michael Makuei emphasized that the peace agreement remains intact, asserting, “The peace agreement is still in place and will be implemented… The peace agreement has not collapsed and will not collapse under any circumstances.”

In response to the rising unrest, Stephen Par Kuol, South Sudan’s peace minister, urged adherence to both the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and the 2017 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, stating that these steps are essential for achieving long-lasting peace. He expressed the necessity for calmness and cooperation among citizenry while reaffirming commitment to the peace process.

A day before, the SPLM-IO spoke critically about Machar’s detainment, suggesting it signifies a breakdown of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and risks plunging the nation back into civil war. However, in light of the recent developments, they appear to have moderated their language while still demanding the release of Machar and other detained officials involved in inciting unrest prior to upcoming elections.

The SPLM-IO has also called for international support from the African Union and the United Nations to facilitate dialogue aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis. Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant challenges, including a brutal civil war from 2013 to 2018 that resulted in approximately 400,000 casualties and a stalled peace framework that remains largely unimplemented.

In conclusion, South Sudan stands at a critical juncture as accusations between the government and opposition heighten tensions surrounding the fragile peace agreement of 2018. With Machar’s arrest prompting calls for his release and a commitment to dialogue, the situation remains precarious. Both the government and opposition must prioritize cooperation to avert a repeat of past conflicts. International support may prove vital in facilitating constructive dialogue and restoring stability.

Original Source: efe.com