President Ruto has urged South Sudanese leaders Kiir and Machar to engage in dialogue to promote peace amidst escalating tensions and violence. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in stabilizing the region under the IGAD framework. Recent unrest, including detentions of key officials and clashes, threatens the fragile peace agreement that was established after years of civil conflict.
President William Ruto has called upon South Sudan’s leaders, Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, to engage in essential dialogue to promote peace amidst growing instability in the region. This appeal aligns with the goals of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Strategic Framework aimed at stabilizing South Sudan. Ruto emphasized the necessity of their cooperation in overcoming differences to secure a peaceful environment for all.
In a recent conversation, Ruto expressed his concerns regarding the escalating security situation in South Sudan, notably the alarming incident where Machar’s residence was surrounded by troops, resulting in the detention of key allies after clashes emerged due to an armed group’s actions. This situation has raised serious alarms about the sustainability of the 2018 peace agreement that was supposed to end hostilities between the factions.
Ongoing diplomatic efforts have been initiated to assist in finding a lasting solution to the turmoil affecting South Sudan. Ruto highlighted that regional consultations are actively focusing on establishing the most appropriate strategies to address the current crises effectively.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been plagued by internal strife. A severe political conflict between Kiir and Machar in December 2013 escalated into a civil war, causing approximately 400,000 fatalities and displacing millions before a peace agreement was reached in 2018. The unity government, formed in 2020, reinstated Machar as Vice President, but the implementation of this agreement has faced numerous obstacles, impacting armed forces unification and local governance.
Recent tensions include the detention of South Sudan’s Petroleum Minister and military officials close to Machar amid violent clashes involving national forces and the White Army militia. This deteriorating situation poses a serious risk to the fragile peace arrangement established to conclude the civil war. Furthermore, a recent Cabinet reshuffle led by Kiir has fueled concerns over the stability of the peace agreement, particularly as Machar demands the reinstatement of dismissed officials, claiming these actions threaten the existing power-sharing arrangement.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s appeal for dialogue between South Sudan’s leadership underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts in restoring peace amid rising tensions. The ongoing instability, coupled with complications from political reshuffles and conflict, challenges the fragile peace established in 2018. Regional diplomatic initiatives are critical to addressing these issues, ensuring that South Sudan can move towards a stable and unified nation.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
