IGAD Urges Release of Machar Allies to Preserve South Sudan’s Peace

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has demanded the immediate release of officials linked to Riek Machar, warning that their detention could threaten South Sudan’s fragile peace. This follows violence in Upper Nile State, where clashes resulted in casualties among military and UN personnel. IGAD called for investigations and stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue to foster reconciliation and stability amid significant challenges to the 2018 peace agreement.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has urgently called for the release of officials associated with Riek Machar, the First Vice President of South Sudan, emphasizing that their detention could undermine the country’s fragile peace agreement. This request comes against a backdrop of increasing tensions following violent clashes in Upper Nile State. The emergency summit, chaired by Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh, highlighted the need for President Salva Kiir’s government to free the detainees unless substantial evidence supports their continued detention.

Although specific names were not mentioned, IGAD noted that the arrests have obstructed the security mechanisms established by the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, which ended a prolonged civil conflict. Recent clashes between forces loyal to Kiir and Machar prompted these detentions after the deaths of significant individuals during military evacuations. Key figures in the recent arrests include Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and other senior military personnel tied to Machar.

IGAD condemned the recent violence and has mandated an investigation into the clashes and subsequent attacks, further commissioning its ceasefire monitoring body, the CTSAMVM, to assess the situation. A ministerial team is also expected to visit Juba to facilitate stalled peace agreements and promote inclusive dialogue among stakeholders. Despite partial praise for the joint appeal for calm following the Nasir clashes, IGAD expressed serious concern over ongoing ceasefire violations and the imperative for unified armed forces and a permanent constitution.

Regional mediation efforts, including the Kenya-led Tumaini Initiative aimed at involving non-signatory groups, received endorsement. Additionally, IGAD called upon religious and civil society leaders to foster a reconciliatory atmosphere within South Sudan. Observers from Uganda and representatives from the UN and African Union participated in the summit, affirming the necessity of consolidating international support.

IGAD has warned that the stability of South Sudan depends on the implementation of overdue reforms, emphasizing that “dialogue and discussion remain the only means for resolving differences.” While the consequences for non-compliance were not specified, IGAD outlined intentions for sustained high-level engagement to prevent a resurgence of conflict. In a response, South Sudanese observer Edmund Yakani found the outcomes of the summit promising but urged leaders to expedite peace commitments. He highlighted a significant trust deficit among governmental leaders as a primary barrier preventing critical reforms and underscored the risk posed by elements that could destabilize peace efforts.

In conclusion, IGAD’s call for the immediate release of detained officials associated with Riek Machar underscores the precarious situation in South Sudan, where peace remains tenuous amid recent violent clashes. The bloc has reiterated the necessity for adherence to the 2018 peace agreement and emphasized dialogue as essential for resolving conflicts. As the region works toward stability, the collaboration of local leadership and adherence to international support will be crucial in ensuring lasting peace and reform in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org