The security situation in South Sudan has worsened, risking a return to civil war amid rising political tensions between SPLM and SPLM-IO. Significant incidents include the White Army’s takeover of military barracks and subsequent retaliatory bombings causing major casualties and displacement. International efforts to reinforce peace are underway; however, political instability poses challenges to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
The security situation in South Sudan has deteriorated sharply due to heightened tensions between the leading political factions, the SPLM, headed by President Salva Kiir, and the SPLM-IO, led by First Vice President Riek Machar. This unrest poses a significant risk of the nation slipping back into civil war.
On March 4, the youth militia known as the White Army seized control of SSPDF barracks, leading to retaliatory aerial bombings in civilian areas. These attacks, employing a highly flammable accelerant, have resulted in numerous casualties and displaced around 100,000 people from their homes.
Concerns about escalating violence in Upper Nile are increasing amidst reports of further mobilization of both the White Army and SSPDF, including the recruitment of children. On March 24, clashes erupted in Juba between SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces, creating anxiety among locals that conflict may spread, reminiscent of previous civil wars in 2013 and 2016.
Political developments have also worsened, with multiple SPLM-IO officials removed, detained, or in hiding. By March 26, reports indicated that Riek Machar was also placed under house arrest. Warnings of a potential relapse into civil war were issued by Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN peacekeeping mission.
These developments risk undermining the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, prompting UN efforts in collaboration with international and regional partners. Key organizations, including UNMISS and the African Union, are striving to avert a return to war and preserve the gains made since the peace agreement.
It is crucial that South Sudanese leaders engage in peace negotiations. The UN Secretary General emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize the welfare of the South Sudanese people over conflict.
Background information indicates that South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, but political tensions rapidly escalated into civil war by 2013. The humanitarian crisis is severe, with over nine million people requiring assistance this year. The situation is aggravated by a flood of returnees from Sudan, economic instability, and healthcare crises, such as cholera outbreaks.
UNMISS was established to support peace and security in South Sudan. Its current objectives include preventing civil war resurgence, enabling self-reliance, and fostering a stable environment for democratic governance and peaceful elections.
In summary, South Sudan faces a critical security and humanitarian crisis as political tensions rise. The actions of military factions and their ramifications threaten the delicate peace established by the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement. International efforts led by the UN aim to restore stability, while pressing for South Sudanese leaders to prioritize peace over conflict. The situation is dire, with millions requiring assistance amidst escalating violence and economic turmoil.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org
