South Sudan military has arrested key allies of Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns over the 2018 peace deal averted. Key figures including the Deputy Army Chief and Petroleum Minister were detained as troops surrounded Machar’s residence. The situation highlights growing tensions linked to unrest in Upper Nile state, risking further violence and humanitarian crises in the region.
In a concerning escalation in South Sudan, key allies of First Vice President Riek Machar have been arrested as armed forces encircle his residence in Juba. The Deputy Army Chief, General Gabriel Duop Lam, and Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol were detained without explanation, following clashes involving a Machar-aligned armed group in Upper Nile state.
Last month, Machar warned that the dismissal of several supporters endangered the 2018 peace deal he struck with President Salva Kiir, which marked the end of a devastating five-year civil war. Water Minister Pal Mai Deng emphasized that Lam’s arrest undermines this agreement and could destabilize the Joint Defence Board crucial for managing military forces.
Concerns are growing about the heavy troop presence around Machar’s home, which has raised alarm among his supporters. Another spokesperson for Machar reported additional senior military officials had been placed under house arrest without explanation.
The army’s spokesperson, Major-General Lul Ruai Koang, declined to comment on the situation. The ongoing civil conflict, which began in December 2013 following Machar’s dismissal, has displaced millions and deteriorated the nation’s stability. There is apprehension about escalating tensions in Upper Nile, where Lam is accused of collaborating with local rebels.
The United Nations has reported increased violence in Upper Nile County, resulting in casualties among both civilians and military personnel, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. Ter Manyang Gatwich, a peace advocacy leader, urged for the immediate release of the detained officials to prevent the situation from escalating into further violence or a broader conflict.
The arrests of key political and military figures linked to Riek Machar amid military tensions in South Sudan pose a significant threat to the fragile peace established in 2018. With the ongoing civil strife and humanitarian issues, the situation remains dire. Urgent calls for peace and the release of those detained are pivotal in avoiding further chaos and potential escalation into full-scale war.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
