IGAD has raised concerns over escalating tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County following arrests of key political figures. Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh urged restraint and dialogue to maintain peace as a high-level delegation prepares to assess the situation. The stability of the 2018 peace agreement faces threats from these developments.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed significant concern regarding the escalating tensions and armed conflicts in Nasir County, South Sudan. These tensions have heightened following the recent arrests of key political figures, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief General Gabriel Duop Lam, who are aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar. IGAD has called on all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to the commitments of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, emphasized the potential threats to the fragile peace established through the 2018 agreement due to the current instability. He urged all parties within South Sudan to engage in dialogue, prioritize reconciliation, and ensure the protection of civilians amidst the growing unrest. Moreover, IGAD plans to dispatch a high-level delegation to evaluate the situation in Nasir County and engage with the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to facilitate measures aimed at restoring peace.
The political climate has significantly deteriorated, particularly following the arrest of allies of Riek Machar, which raised alarms about the stability of the 2018 peace deal that ended a devastating civil war. Machar himself has cautioned that these dismissals jeopardize the hard-won peace and could lead to further conflict. Meanwhile, armed forces have surrounded Machar’s residence in Juba, escalating tensions even further, without clear reasons for the arrests beyond their political affiliations.
In conclusion, IGAD’s urgent intervention in South Sudan highlights the critical need for dialogue and reconciliation amid growing political instability. The recent arrests of prominent figures have intensified these tensions, prompting concerns over the sustainability of the 2018 peace agreement. The call for restraint and the planned high-level assessment reflect a proactive approach to restoring calm and upholding the commitments made under the peace deal as South Sudan navigates these challenging circumstances.
Original Source: ghettoradio.co.ke
