Escalating Tensions in South Sudan: Arrests Amid Growing Violence

The National Security Service has arrested Honourable Stephen Par Kuol and other senior officials linked to Machar amid escalating violence in Upper Nile State. Information Minister Makuei accused Machar’s loyalists of collaborating with militias in attacks. Church leaders called for dialogue as concerns over political tensions rise, while analysts warn of potential retaliatory attacks by opposition armed groups.

The National Security Service has arrested Honourable Stephen Par Kuol from his office, according to Machar’s Spokesperson Puok Both Baluang. This follows the earlier arrests of the Petroleum Minister, Deputy Head of the Army, and other senior military officials associated with Machar’s faction. These actions occurred amidst intense conflict in the Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army militia, predominantly formed of Machar’s ethnic group, the Nuer.

The government has yet to issue a statement regarding the arrests; however, Information Minister Michael Makuei accused Machar’s loyalists of collaborating with the White Army in an attack against a military garrison near Nasir. Historically, the White Army supported Machar’s forces during the 2013-2018 civil war against predominantly ethnic Dinka troops loyal to President Kiir, resulting in approximately 400,000 fatalities and displacing 2.5 million individuals.

While a peace agreement reached in 2018 has largely curtailed direct confrontations between Kiir and Machar’s troops, localized skirmishes continue, exacerbated by an influx of arms from the civil conflict in Sudan. Kuol, serving as the Peacebuilding Minister, played a significant role in the negotiations that led to this peace deal.

In a statement issued on Thursday, church leaders voiced their concerns over rising political tensions and violence, emphasizing the need for dialogue. Daniel Akech Thiong, an analyst at the International Crisis Group, remarked that the recent arrests signify a troubling escalation, potentially triggering counterattacks from opposition-linked armed groups against government positions.

In 2022, the government delayed national elections, previously scheduled for December 2023, to December 2026, citing the necessity for additional preparation time.

The recent arrests of prominent political figures linked to Machar reflect rising tensions and instability within South Sudan. These actions follow heightened violence in Upper Nile State and may provoke retaliatory actions from opposition factions. The call for dialogue from church leaders and the postponement of national elections further highlight the pressing need for a stable political resolution in the region.

Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za