Kenyan President William Ruto urges South Sudanese leaders to engage in dialogue amidst escalating violence and tensions that threaten a peace agreement. He emphasizes ongoing regional consultations and highlights arrests of key officials following recent clashes, raising concerns about the stability of the 2018 peace deal.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for calm in South Sudan amidst escalating security tensions that threaten a key peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil war. During talks with South Sudanese leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, Ruto emphasized the importance of dialogue to achieve peace while outlining regional efforts to stabilize South Sudan.
Ruto, who is the Chairman of the East African Community, noted ongoing regional consultations to find an effective resolution to the unrest in South Sudan. This appeal follows recent clashes in Upper Nile State involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the White Army, a grouping of armed civilians. The violence has subsequently increased tensions in Juba, the capital.
Reports indicate that over 20 people have been killed and many injured near Nasir, a strategic location along the South Sudan-Ethiopia border. In the wake of the clashes, several military officials associated with the SPLM/A-IO have been arrested or placed under house arrest, following accusations from government officials of unlawful actions.
Machar’s spokesperson reported the detention of two ministers and other military leaders tied to Machar. This situation has raised concerns about the stability of the 2018 peace deal, which was designed to end civil conflict but has struggled with the challenges of militarily unifying opposing factions and ensuring sustained peace.
In summary, Kenyan President William Ruto’s intervention highlights the urgent need for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to mitigate growing tensions and uphold the 2018 peace agreement. The arrests of government officials amid recent clashes further complicate the political landscape, emphasizing the fragile nature of peace in the region. Collaborative regional efforts remain crucial in addressing these conflicts.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
