South Sudan is on the verge of civil war as tensions escalate between Vice President Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir, following arrests of Machar’s allies. The recent seizure of Nasir by militia groups and government attacks on civilians highlight the volatility of the situation, coupled with stalled peace negotiations and the significance of oil production for recovery.
Tensions are rising in South Sudan as Vice President Riek Machar faces increasing pressure following the arrest of key allies, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol. Both leaders hail from the Nuer ethnic group, which is the second largest in South Sudan, after the Dinka, to which President Salva Kiir belongs. This crackdown by Kiir is fueling fears of an impending civil war, especially after militia forces aligned with Machar seized control of Nasir, a strategic town.
Following the boom in the White Army’s power, which Machar historically supported, relations between Kiir and Machar are deteriorating. Their previous peace agreement, aimed at integrating various ethnic militias into a national army by 2022, has faltered since negotiations stalled last year. Kiir’s recent unilateral dismissal of Machar’s allies has further escalated tensions, violating the peace pact’s stipulations.
In recent developments, government forces have attacked civilians in Nasir, leading to retaliatory violence where armed youths killed at least four soldiers. This cycle of violence escalated just after South Sudan resumed oil production, essential for its economic recovery. The stability of the nation hangs in the balance as the situation inches towards a potential civil conflict.
South Sudan is facing escalating tensions that could lead to civil war, particularly with the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar’s allies and the recent violence in Nasir. The breakdown of peace negotiations and government attacks on civilians further complicate the stability of the region. With the nation recently resuming oil production, the stakes for peace and security are higher than ever.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
