Recent tensions in South Sudan escalated with the arrest of peacebuilding minister Stephen Par Kuol as government forces target associates of Riek Machar. The White Army is involved in ongoing clashes especially in Upper Nile, raising fears of renewed civil conflict. Church leaders and analysts have called for dialogue amidst increasing insecurity and political strife, with implications for the upcoming national elections delayed until December 2026.
In South Sudan, the ongoing tensions escalated as government forces loyal to President Salva Kiir arrested the peacebuilding minister, Hon. Stephen Par Kuol. This came amidst a crackdown on allies of First Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns among church leaders about a potential return to civil war. The arrests reflect a deepening political rift as Machar’s spokesperson confirmed the incident on social media.
The recent arrests followed fierce clashes in Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army, a militia largely composed of the Nuer ethnic group, which is affiliated with Machar. This situation is exacerbated by earlier detentions of other senior officials, including the petroleum minister and deputy military head, signaling escalating hostilities.
Government officials have not publicly addressed the recent arrests, though Information Minister Michael Makuei accused Machar’s forces of supporting White Army actions against a military installation earlier in the week. The White Army previously allied with Machar during the devastating civil war from 2013 to 2018, which resulted in substantial loss of life and displacement.
A peace agreement reached in 2018 has largely managed to contain large-scale violence; however, localized conflicts continue to emerge, fueled by increasing access to arms due to the ongoing civil strife in Sudan. Kuol, who was instrumental in the peace negotiations, is now ensnared in this escalating conflict.
In response to the deteriorating political climate, church leaders have expressed their concerns over rising insecurity and violence, advocating for dialogue as a means to restore peace. According to Daniel Akech Thiong from the International Crisis Group, the series of arrests points to a significant escalation that may provoke attacks from opposition-linked armed groups against government facilities.
The situation in South Sudan is becoming increasingly volatile, with recent ministerial arrests signaling potential for renewed conflict. Church leaders and analysts are voicing concerns regarding escalating tensions and the risk of violence. The historical context of the civil war and ongoing political instability highlights the urgent need for dialogue to avert further deterioration of peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
