The political situation in Juba, South Sudan, is deteriorating with the arrest of opposition leaders linked to Riek Machar. Tensions have escalated in Nasir County due to clashes between government forces and the White Army. A high-level meeting aimed at addressing security concerns took place, but widespread fears persist regarding potential violence and the impact on upcoming elections.
The political atmosphere in Juba, South Sudan, has grown tense following the arrest of key opposition politicians and military generals associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. This unrest is emerging amidst increased instability in regions like Nasir County, highlighted by a recent attack on the town by the militant White Army allied to Machar’s Nuer ethnic group.
Since mid-February, Nasir County has faced a volatile security situation due to clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army. The White Army played a crucial role during the previous civil war (2013-2018) against Dinka forces loyal to President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The situation escalated when the White Army attacked and overran Nasir Town on March 4.
To address these security issues, a high-level presidential meeting was convened on March 3, led by President Kiir. Machar had expressed his concerns in a letter on February 27, urging urgent dialogue to remedy the escalating tensions. Notably, leaders from various political factions attended and agreed on troop movements to stabilize Nasir County.
Following the meeting, Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Lueth, reaffirmed the leaders’ commitment to national unity and requested community cooperation for troop deployment to ensure safe passage. This sentiment was echoed by Puot Kang, Minister of Petroleum, who stressed the need for residents to support the forces.
However, local communities are apprehensive about the government sending additional forces, fearing possible targeting of civilians or disarmament under the guise of troop replacement. Many community leaders advocate for the deployment of a unified military force as stipulated in the 2018 peace agreement.
The conflict has deepened with the recent removal of the SPLM-IO-affiliated governor in Western Equatoria, leading to unrest. Additionally, army operations in Nasir County encountered resistance from the White Army, which claimed control over the town amid ongoing hostilities.
Significant arrests have intensified the political crisis, including the detention of senior military leaders associated with the SPLM-IO. The apprehension of Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, a senior military official, raised concerns regarding the legality of these actions under the peace agreement.
Critics argue that such sweeping arrests could threaten the fragile peace process, which has held since the 2018 agreement. The South Sudanese government indicated that these arrests are necessary for maintaining law and order.
The situation has compelled many opposition leaders to either flee the country or go into hiding, amidst fears that any renewed conflict could drastically undermine the peace process ahead of the elections scheduled for December 2026. Analysts warn that the ongoing instability and unrest are compounded by the situation in Sudan, which has affected South Sudan’s oil exports, the country’s primary source of revenue.
The recent political unrest in South Sudan, highlighted by arrests of opposition leaders and rising violence in regions like Nasir County, underscores the fragility of peace in the nation. Growing tensions may threaten the stability required for the upcoming elections scheduled for December 2026. To navigate this tumultuous period, dialogue and cooperation among political factions and communities are essential to avoid a resurgence of civil conflict and further humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
