South Sudan’s government accuses Vice President Riek Machar of conspiracy, escalating political tensions following his arrest. The government insists the 2018 peace deal remains intact despite the crisis. Calls for dialogue are made by opposition leaders to maintain peace and prevent civil war. The situation reflects a fragile political landscape where commitment to peace is critical.
South Sudan’s government has accused Vice President Riek Machar of conspiracy, escalating tensions as the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) calls for his immediate release. The fragile peace deal established in 2018 remains a critical focus, with all parties reluctant to break it. On Wednesday, President Salva Kiir ordered Machar’s arrest due to suspected contacts with opposition groups since early March.
Despite rising tensions, government officials assert that the peace agreement will remain intact. Information Minister Michael Makuei stated at a recent press conference that, “the peace agreement has not collapsed and will not collapse under any circumstances,” reaffirming commitment to the existing peace framework.
Stephen Par Kuol, South Sudan’s peace minister, urged compliance with the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and emphasized adherence to the permanent ceasefire and the 2017 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. He underscored that these commitments are vital for establishing lasting peace in the region, calling for public calm amidst the crisis.
The SPLM-IO’s official spokesperson characterized Machar’s arrest as a significant blow, suggesting it puts the country on the brink of civil war. However, they have moderated their tone, insisting on Machar’s release and the return of detained opposition officials while urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to ease tensions.
The call for dialogue has been extended to support from the African Union and the United Nations to help resolve the escalating crisis. Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has experienced substantial conflict, including a five-year civil war that concluded with the 2018 power-sharing deal between Kiir and Machar, yet many key elements of this agreement remain unfulfilled.
The current crisis in South Sudan highlights the fragility of the peace deal established in 2018. Accusations against Vice President Riek Machar by the government have intensified political tensions, yet both sides express a commitment to the enduring peace agreement. Calls for dialogue and adherence to ceasefire agreements are essential components for maintaining stability and seeking resolution to the ongoing conflict amid fears of potential escalation into civil war.
Original Source: efe.com
