Escalating Conflict in South Sudan: Urgent Appeals for Resolution

The conflict in South Sudan has escalated, leading to arrests of high-ranking officials and a UN helicopter incident. Tensions rise between President Kiir and Vice President Machar, with links to the Sudan conflict affecting the situation. Calls for dialogue and peace remain crucial as the country approaches its first elections.

The escalating conflict in South Sudan has prompted urgent appeals from neighboring countries and international organizations for resolution. Tensions have intensified between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, evidenced by the recent arrests of prominent government officials, including the ministers of petroleum and peace building, as well as military leaders. Reports indicate that security forces surrounded Machar’s residence in Juba.

A significant event occurred when a United Nations helicopter was shot down during a rescue mission, resulting in the deaths of numerous military personnel, including a general. President Kiir characterized this act as an “assassination.” The ongoing conflict, which began in February under unclear circumstances, has been linked by human rights organizations to disarmament efforts in various regions including Upper Nile and Western Bahr el-Ghazal.

Outgoing African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging adherence to ceasefire agreements and the initiation of national dialogue. Since February, clashes have erupted between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army in Upper Nile State, which the government alleges is affiliated with Machar’s party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO). These tensions resulted in security crackdowns in Juba.

Military spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang has urged former opposition officers integrated into the military to resume their duties, despite their fears of being targeted, which exacerbates the already critical situation. The 2018 peace agreement that reinstated Machar as First Vice President is now endangered, with many military allies of Machar reportedly under house arrest. The reason for Kiir recalling Juba’s ambassador to Kenya remains unclear.

The incomplete implementation of the 2018 peace deal highlights issues such as the integration of armed forces, the creation of a new constitution, and the organization of census and elections. Moreover, regional analysts suggest a connection between the current violence in South Sudan and the conflict in Sudan, where fighting has disrupted oil supplies, thus straining President Kiir’s capacity to maintain peace.

Juba has maintained a careful diplomatic balance, engaging with both the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to ensure stability in oil transport. A recent discussion between President Kiir and Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chairman, Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, addressed bilateral security matters. Accusations have been exchanged, with Khartoum accusing Juba of inadequate measures against RSF recruiting within South Sudan while Juba connects the White Army to SPLM-IO and the Sudanese Army. South Sudan anticipates its first elections in December 2026, over a decade following its independence.

In summary, the escalating conflict in South Sudan poses significant challenges to political stability and peace. Urgent calls from regional and international communities aim to mediate the rising tensions between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. The repercussions of the violence extend beyond national borders, affecting relations with Sudan and undermining the implementation of previous peace agreements. As the nation prepares for its upcoming elections, the path to reconciliation remains fraught with complexities.

Original Source: kenyanwallstreet.com