The UN Commission on Human Rights warns of an “alarming regression” in South Sudan as recent violence threatens a fragile power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Clashes in Upper Nile state and the impact of militia involvement raise fears of renewed conflict, urging leaders to refocus on peace and human rights.
The UN Commission on Human Rights has raised alarms regarding significant setbacks in South Sudan’s pursuit of peace, especially following recent violent outbreaks. Chairperson Yasmin Sooka stated that clashes in the northeast could jeopardize the fragile power-sharing deal established between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, reached in 2018 to end years of civil war.
Recent violence stems from confrontations in Upper Nile state, primarily between government forces and an alleged militia affiliated with Machar. This unrest has intensified fears of renewed conflict in the region. The commission emphasized the need for leaders to focus on peace, human rights, and democratic transitions rather than escalating divisions.
The uprisings reportedly initiated in February when fighting broke out in Nasir County. While the exact cause is indeterminate, it is suggested that rumors of forced disarmament might have triggered the violence. Heavy weaponry has been reported in recent skirmishes across multiple states in South Sudan.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth attributed part of the chaos to the White Army, alleging collusion with Machar’s SPLM/IO party. Tensions peaked with the arrest of two officials linked to Machar and a siege around his residence. A UN helicopter was also targeted during an attempted rescue, resulting in fatalities.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced recurring conflicts despite signing the Revitalised Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in 2018. This agreement failed to implement necessary reforms, leaving the nation in a cycle of power struggles and human rights violations. Barney Afako from the UN Commission has condemned witnessing a regression towards conditions that have historically plagued the country, emphasizing the urgent need for respite and resolution.
The UN Commission’s warning illustrates the dire situation in South Sudan, where recent violence undermines years of peace efforts. The fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar is at risk, and escalating tensions threaten to ignite further conflict. Leaders must prioritize peace and human rights to prevent a return to civil war and ensure stability in the youngest nation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
