Riek Machar’s arrest has escalated tensions in South Sudan, risking a return to civil war. The UN warns the country is on the brink of widespread conflict due to deteriorating political agreements. Analysts express concern over violence spreading, as both Machar and President Kiir avoid dialogue, prompting international response and embassy withdrawals.
The arrest of South Sudan’s First Vice President, Riek Machar, has left the nation perilously close to widespread conflict, according to a UN statement. On Wednesday, a convoy of 20 armed vehicles stormed Machar’s residence in Juba, marking a significant escalation in ongoing tensions between him and President Salva Kiir. The power-sharing agreement facilitating their political coexistence has been deteriorating, raising fears of a return to civil war similar to the devastating one that occurred from 2013 to 2018.
Machar’s party condemned the actions taken by the Minister of Defense and Chief of National Security, which led to his arrest under unclear charges. Bodyguards were disarmed during the operation, and the government was reported to be planning to relocate him. This political upheaval could lead to dire consequences for the entire region, warned Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Since the signing of the 2018 peace deal, which ended the five-year civil conflict, South Sudan has remained mired in poverty and instability. Analysts suggest that President Kiir, now 73, has been maneuvering to consolidate power and marginalize Machar through targeted arrests of allies and reshuffling the cabinet. Reports indicate that over 20 political and military figures aligned with Machar have also been detained since February.
Violent confrontations have been occurring between forces loyal to both leaders, with clashes reported in Upper Nile State and assaults on military bases connected to Machar’s forces. His party has characterized these government actions as “terrorism” and has called upon the international community to step in.
The continuous violence appears to be spreading beyond specific regions, leading experts to caution that the ongoing refusal to engage in dialogue between Kiir and Machar could spiral into uncontrollable violence across the nation. Widespread concerns are mounting, prompting countries such as Norway and Germany to withdraw embassy personnel from Juba, while the UK and US embassies have also reduced staffing levels and advised their citizens to leave.
The arrest of Riek Machar signifies a crucial escalation in South Sudan’s existing political turmoil. With the potential for renewed conflict looming, the international community’s concern is palpable. The failure of both leaders to engage in constructive dialogue raises the possibility of widespread violence that could become difficult to manage. Observers will be closely monitoring the situation as developments unfold.
Original Source: www.news.com.au
