Detentions in South Sudan Raise Concerns Over Peace Agreement Stability

South Sudan has arrested Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and several military officials linked to First Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns about the stability of the 2018 peace agreement. The relationship between Machar and President Salva Kiir remains distressed, with ongoing violence in the region.

South Sudanese authorities have detained Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and various senior military officials aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar, as reported by a spokesperson from the vice presidency. This development raises concerns over the stability of the peace agreement that formally ended the civil war in 2018.

Following the 2018 agreement, which resolved a five-year conflict between Machar and President Salva Kiir resulting in numerous casualties, the relationship between these leaders remains turbulent. Incidents of violence among competing groups continue to emerge, reflecting the fragile peace status.

Puok Both Baluang, Machar’s spokesperson, confirmed that all officials allied with Machar have been either detained or placed under house arrest and noted that no reasons have been given for these actions. As of Wednesday morning, Machar was still able to visit his office, despite increased military presence around his residence.

The detention of key officials in South Sudan indicates significant strains on the peace agreement established in 2018. The ongoing volatility between the political leaders and communities casts doubt on the durability of peace in the region. The situation necessitates careful monitoring to ensure that further escalations do not disrupt the fragile stability achieved since the civil war ended.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com