Arrests of Key Allies Threaten South Sudan’s Fragile Peace Agreement

South Sudan’s fragile peace agreement is threatened following the recent arrests of the oil minister and deputy army chief, allies of First Vice-President Riek Machar. Continued clashes in Upper Nile State between government forces and Machar’s supporters further escalate tensions. International calls for restraint and intervention underscore the urgent need for dialogue to prevent a return to conflict.

The recent arrest of South Sudan’s oil minister and deputy army chief, both allies of First Vice-President Riek Machar, has raised concerns regarding the stability of the country’s fragile peace agreement. This turmoil follows ongoing violent clashes in Upper Nile State between government forces and rebels alleged to be supported by Machar.

The South Sudanese government, led by President Salva Kiir, claimed that a rebel assault had overtaken a military garrison in Upper Nile, intensifying fears over the power-sharing arrangement established post-civil war in 2018. Criticism directed at Machar’s movement, the SPLM-IO, suggests collusion with armed groups from the vice-president’s ethnic community, particularly in regards to the recent violent incidents.

In the wake of these events, Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed on Tuesday, two high-ranking officials, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, were arrested without proper legal justification. Machar’s residence has experienced military presence, further contributing to the atmosphere of unrest within Juba, the nation’s capital.

The SPLM-IO has condemned these arrests, viewing them as violations of the peace agreement and calling upon international allies for intervention to avert a potential return to widespread violence. The disarray in government continues with warnings from the United Nations regarding escalating tensions and casualties due to heavy armament in Upper Nile.

Regional leaders represented by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) expressed profound concern that the ongoing clashes could reverse the positive progress made toward peace and worsen the humanitarian crisis. Calls for immediate cessation of hostilities, contributed by multiple embassies including those from the United States and the United Kingdom, indicate a collective urgency for dialogue and adherence to the interests of South Sudan’s populace.

This turmoil follows a recent decision by Kiir to dismiss two vice-presidents and a governor affiliated with Machar’s movement, which analysts perceive as strategic maneuvers to consolidate power. Political experts warn that the persistent aggression among leaders could lead South Sudan back to conflict, absent a commitment to open dialogue and the prioritization of public welfare.

The developments in South Sudan, marked by the arrest of key political figures and escalating violence, cast a shadow over the integrity of the peace agreement established in 2018. With international entities calling for restraint and dialogue, the situation remains precarious, and experts caution that without genuine efforts to address underlying tensions, the nation risks descending into renewed conflict. The future of peace in South Sudan hinges on unity and cooperation among its leaders.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr