South Sudan has arrested its petroleum minister and senior military officials allied with Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns over a fragile peace. Machar’s spokesperson reported no reasons were given for the detentions, while tensions between Machar and President Salva Kiir remain high.
In a development that may threaten the peace agreement in South Sudan, the petroleum minister and several high-ranking military officials who support First Vice President Riek Machar were arrested by government forces. This arrest comes amidst a fragile peace that has persisted since the 2018 agreement, which ended a brutal five-year conflict between Machar and President Salva Kiir, resulting in numerous casualties.
Despite the ongoing peace, tensions remain between Machar and Kiir, with sporadic violence erupting among rival communities. Puok Both Baluang, spokesperson for Machar, confirmed the arrest of Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and the deputy army chief, adding that several other military officials loyal to Machar have been placed under house arrest.
Baluang indicated that no specific reasons have been provided for the detentions. Additionally, South Sudanese troops have been stationed around Machar’s residence; however, he managed to travel to his office without incident on Wednesday morning, according to reports.
The recent detentions in South Sudan highlight the ongoing fragility of the peace agreement established in 2018. With key figures in the government and military facing arrest, there are concerns over the potential for renewed conflict between rival factions. The situation remains fluid, with South Sudanese forces maintaining a strong presence around high-ranking officials, impacting the stability of the nation.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
