IGAD raises alarms over escalating tensions in South Sudan, urging restraint among parties involved. Tensions spiked following arrests of key officials linked to Vice President Riek Machar. IGAD plans to dispatch a high-level delegation to address the destabilizing situation and safeguard the R-ARCSS peace process.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed significant concern regarding escalating tensions and armed conflicts in Nasir County, South Sudan. Tensions surged following the arrests of key political figures, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief General Gabriel Duop Lam, who are associated with First Vice President Riek Machar.
IGAD is urging all involved parties to show restraint and adhere to the R-ARCSS peace process. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, issued a call for dialogue and reconciliation, emphasizing these as essential for sustainable peace. He announced that a high-level delegation will be dispatched to assess the situation in Nasir County.
Concerns have arisen that the ongoing political instability could jeopardize the achievements made under the 2018 peace agreement. Dr. Workneh stated, “H.E. Dr. Workneh calls upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint, reaffirm their commitment to the R-ARCSS, and prioritize dialogue and reconciliation as the only sustainable path to peace.” The remarks highlight the urgent need for collaborative efforts to stabilize the region, particularly amid the recent violent incidents involving armed groups.
In light of the circumstances, IGAD intends to engage with the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to develop measures aimed at restoring peace. Thus far, the motivations behind the key arrests remain unclear, coming after an attack by pro-Machar forces on a military base in Upper Nile State. Machar has cautioned that these actions threaten to undermine the fragile peace established in 2018, which ended a five-year civil conflict resulting in significant loss of life.
Rising tensions in South Sudan have prompted IGAD’s intervention, highlighting the urgency for peaceful dialogue among political factions. The organization seeks to ensure stability and protect civilians by sending a high-level delegation to engage with local authorities. There remains a critical need to address any unrest generated by recent political actions that threaten the 2018 peace deal, reflecting the complexities of maintaining order in the region.
Original Source: ghettoradio.co.ke
