Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First VP, was arrested, raising concerns of renewed conflict. The arrest escalates tensions as a power-sharing deal with President Kiir unravels. UN officials warn of a return to civil war amidst ongoing violence and political unrest, stressing the need for dialogue to avert disaster.
The arrest of Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First Vice President and rival to President Salva Kiir, was executed by armed forces in a significant escalation of ongoing tensions. The action brings the nation to a precarious situation, as expressed by the UN, indicating a potential for widespread conflict. A power-sharing agreement previously established between Kiir and Machar is disintegrating, reviving fears of civil war reminiscent of the 2013–2018 conflict that resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths.
Machar was taken into custody following the arrival of a convoy of heavy military vehicles at his residence in Juba. His party condemned the unconstitutional actions undertaken by government officials, citing that his bodyguards were disarmed and he was served an unclear arrest warrant. Current actions are being taken to relocate him under circumstances that remain unclear.
According to Nicholas Haysom, head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the situation has reached a critical point. Haysom stated that the country is at risk of a return to extensive conflict and emphasized that violations of the 2018 peace agreement threaten not only South Sudan but also the surrounding region. Despite achieving independence in 2011, South Sudan has continued to struggle with significant poverty and instability.
Increasingly, President Kiir is perceived as attempting to secure his political future by undermining Machar through various means. Since February, over 20 allies of Machar have been arrested, with many held incommunicado. Tensions have erupted into violence, particularly in the northeastern Nasir County, where government and opposing militia forces have clashed.
Machar’s military wing, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO), has accused government forces of attacking training centers in the Juba area meant for unifying the military as stipulated in the peace agreement. Claims regarding clashes have emerged from both sides, with the Kiir-aligned army denying some incidents while accusing Machar’s forces of aggressive behavior.
Concerns among Juba residents regarding escalating violence and political strife are palpable. Locals, such as Lilian Sukeji, express anxiety that the country is teetering back towards warfare, advocating for dialogue over violent measures.
Despite his previous assertions of dedication to peace, Kiir’s government has been unable to mitigate ongoing violent conflicts across South Sudan. Experts point to the increasing clashes and the leaders’ unwillingness to seek dialogue as a dangerous sign, potentially leading to chaotic violence difficult to control. Diplomatic reactions from international observers have intensified, with several countries reducing their diplomatic presence in Juba and advising citizens to evacuate.
The arrest of Riek Machar marks a critical turning point in South Sudan’s political landscape, potentially reigniting civil conflict. As relations between Kiir and Machar deteriorate, urgent dialogue is necessary to prevent further violence. Without significant international intervention and a commitment to peace, the situation in South Sudan risks escalating into widespread turmoil affecting the region as a whole.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
