Kenya’s President William Ruto has called for dialogue among South Sudanese leaders amidst rising violence that threatens a peace agreement. Recent clashes in Upper Nile State have escalated tensions in Juba, resulting in arrests of key officials. Machar warns that such actions could destabilize the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement, which aims to unify armed groups into a national army.
Kenya’s President William Ruto has urged South Sudanese leaders to pursue dialogue to resolve the escalating conflict threatening the peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war. His call followed a conversation with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, emphasizing the importance of dialogue for fostering peace. The presidency issued a statement indicating that regional consultations are in progress for a viable path forward regarding South Sudan’s security situation.
Ruto, as the Chairman of the East African Community, made this appeal in light of recent clashes in Upper Nile State. These hostilities involved the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed groups, known as the White Army. The intensified fighting in Nasir, a crucial town, has heightened tensions in Juba, South Sudan’s capital, resulting in the detention of top government and military officials associated with Machar’s faction.
Reports indicate more than 20 casualties occurred in the vicinity of Nasir, which is now largely abandoned and sits on the South Sudan-Ethiopia border. Machar’s spokesperson mentioned the arrest of two ministers and several senior military officials, attributing their detentions to conflicts with the law. The Information Minister confirmed these arrests, claiming they were due to alleged attacks on government positions by SPLM/A-IO forces.
Machar has previously criticized the removal of his allies from government roles, warning that such actions could compromise the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement. This deal, while anticipated to resolve civil conflicts, has encountered numerous delays, specifically in the integration of various armed factions into a unified national army.
In conclusion, President William Ruto’s call for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders is a crucial step in safeguarding the 2018 peace agreement amidst escalating violence. The recent clashes have highlighted significant tensions within the government, prompting security actions against officials linked to Machar. Continuous regional efforts and commitment to the peace process will be essential to prevent a return to civil conflict.
Original Source: www.thestatesman.com
