South Sudanese forces have arrested petroleum minister and military officials aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar, threatening the 2018 peace deal. The detentions followed intense conflict in Nasir involving the White Army militia. Observers warn that this may escalate into renewed violence without effective intervention from leadership.
Recent developments in South Sudan have created significant tensions, as the petroleum minister and several high-ranking military officials aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar have been detained, as reported by Machar’s spokesperson. This incident poses a threat to the fragile peace accord established to conclude the civil war, which had occurred after South Sudan’s independence.
The arrests are linked to violent clashes that recently erupted in the northern town of Nasir, where national military forces faced off against the White Army militia, composed primarily of Nuer individuals, Machar’s ethnic group. Historical context reveals that the White Army previously fought alongside Machar during the civil war of 2013-2018 against the forces loyal to President Salva Kiir, predominantly comprised of ethnic Dinka.
Notable figures including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief Gabriel Doup Lam were apprehended, while other senior military members supporting Machar have been placed under house arrest. Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, remarked that no clear rationale has been provided for these arrests.
Reports indicate an increased military presence around Machar’s residence, although he was able to carry out duties at his office. The South Sudanese government’s information minister, Michael Makuei, has not commented on the situation but plans to conduct a press conference.
The civil war in South Sudan has been devastating, leading to an estimated 400,000 deaths and displacing 2.5 million people since the nation became independent from Sudan. While the peace agreement reached in 2018 has provided some reprieve from extensive fighting, sporadic violence persists across the region.
The African Union and United Nations peacekeeping forces recently urged for de-escalation in the volatile Upper Nile State and warned that unchecked violence could spread further. Ter Manyang, from the Center for Peace and Advocacy, expressed concern over the potential return to widespread conflict if the situation is not effectively managed by South Sudan’s leadership.
The recent detainment of key government and military officials in South Sudan raises concerns over the stability of the peace agreement that has held since the end of the civil war. Given the ongoing violence in regions like Nasir and the historical context of ethnic tensions, the need for effective leadership and conflict resolution is critical to avoid a resurgence of warfare. The international community continues to advocate for peace and stability in the region, recognizing the dire consequences that could unfold if tensions are not addressed promptly.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
