South Sudan’s petroleum minister has been arrested alongside military officials aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar, amid rising tensions and security alerts. The arrests follow clashes with the White Army militia, raising concerns over potential violence in the politically unstable nation. Recent warnings from the African Union and U.N. emphasize the need for de-escalation.
The petroleum minister of South Sudan has been detained by military forces amid escalating tensions. The arrests are reportedly linked to several military officials who are allied with First Vice President Riek Machar. Following these arrests, there has been an increased security presence around Machar’s residence, indicating heightened security concerns in the region.
Reports indicate that South Sudan’s security forces made these arrests one day after detaining multiple military officers. The situation has drawn attention due to a statement from Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, who noted, “As of now, there’s not any reason provided to us that led to the arrest or the detention of (these) officials.”
Around this time, clashes have erupted between national troops and the White Army militia in the northern town of Nasir, highlighting the ongoing ethnic tensions post-civil conflict in South Sudan. The White Army fought alongside Machar during earlier civil conflicts but has noticeably clashed with the forces loyal to President Salva Kiir.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with political instability and violence. The country has been facing challenges in implementing a peace agreement aimed at ending a civil war that erupted in 2013, leading to enormous loss of life and dislocation.
Upcoming elections have also been postponed to 2026, adding to the political unrest. Both the African Union and United Nations peacekeeping forces have issued warnings about the potential for widespread violence, stressing the urgent need for de-escalation, particularly in Upper Nile State, where tensions are high.
Experts like Ter Manyang, director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy in Juba, have indicated that the recent arrests could spark further violence if not adequately managed by South Sudan’s leadership.
The detention of South Sudan’s petroleum minister and allied military officials signals significant political unrest amid existing ethnic tensions. With heightened security around key political figures and warnings from international organizations, the situation demands careful attention to prevent further escalation of violence. The historical context of past conflicts remains critical as South Sudan navigates its precarious political landscape.
Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com
