South Sudan has detained its oil minister and several military officials allied with First Vice President Riek Machar, which threatens the fragile peace established after the civil war. Tensions between Machar and President Salva Kiir continue, with a lack of clarity surrounding the reasons for the arrests. Military forces have also been deployed around Machar’s residence.
South Sudan has arrested its oil minister and several senior military officials affiliated with First Vice President Riek Machar, posing a threat to the fragile peace accord established in 2018 that ended a lengthy civil war. The country’s peace process remains precarious as the relationship between Machar and President Salva Kiir continues to be tumultuous, with periodic violence erupting among rival factions.
Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, confirmed that Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and the deputy head of the army were detained, while other senior military officials linked to Machar are under house arrest. Baluang reported that no reasons have been provided for these officials’ arrests.
Military forces have been observed surrounding Machar’s residence, although he was able to go to his office on Wednesday morning. This development could further exacerbate tensions in the region, which has been struggling to maintain stability since the civil conflict was declared over.
The recent detentions of the petroleum minister and military officials in South Sudan raise significant concerns regarding the stability of the current peace agreement. With a history of violent conflict, the action underscores the ongoing tension between Riek Machar and Salva Kiir, highlighting the need for vigilance to maintain peace in the region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
