South Sudan police have detained Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and military officials linked to First Vice President Riek Machar, putting the peace deal that ended the country’s civil war at risk. The arrests correlate with rising violence in Nasir, igniting concerns of a potential return to war if leadership fails to manage the situation.
In South Sudan, the arrest of Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and several senior military officials associated with First Vice President Riek Machar poses a serious threat to the ongoing peace deal that concluded the civil war. According to Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, these arrests coincide with recent violent confrontations in the strategically vital town of Nasir between national forces and the White Army militia, predominantly comprised of Nuer, Machar’s ethnic group.
The ongoing violence in Nasir has raised concerns, as the White Army previously collaborated with Machar’s forces during the civil war from 2013 to 2018, facing off against the predominantly Dinka troops loyal to President Salva Kiir. Following the arrests, significant security measures were taken, including deploying South Sudanese troops around Machar’s residence, though he was able to attend his office.
The South Sudanese government has yet to publicly comment on the arrests, as Information Minister Michael Makuei has promised to hold a news conference later. South Sudan’s civil war has had devastating consequences, leading to approximately 400,000 deaths and displacing 2.5 million people. Although the 2018 peace agreement has largely curbed large-scale violence, sporadic incidents continue to threaten stability.
Recent statements from the African Union and the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan have urged the parties involved to de-escalate tensions in Nasir, emphasizing the potential for extensive conflict. Ter Manyang, head of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, expressed fears about the country’s future, underscoring the urgent need for effective leadership to prevent a resurgence of war.
The arrest of key officials aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar in South Sudan threatens to destabilize a fragile peace established after years of civil war. As fighting intensifies in Nasir, the repercussions could lead to renewed violence unless effectively managed by the nation’s leadership. The international community is watching closely and calls for de-escalation are being voiced to avert a repeat of past conflicts.
Original Source: www.newsbreak.com
