The South Sudan government has arrested several officials allied with First Vice-President Riek Machar, including the peacebuilding minister, amid escalating tensions that may lead to renewed conflict. Clashes between national forces and the White Army, as well as accusations of collaboration by Machar’s forces, highlight the precarious situation. Church leaders and analysts emphasize the need for dialogue to address the increasing violence and political instability.
The political turmoil in South Sudan is escalating as the government continues to arrest allies of First Vice-President Riek Machar. Recently, Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, the peacebuilding minister, was detained by the National Security Service (NSS), further intensifying the conflict. His arrest follows the apprehension of the petroleum minister, the deputy head of the army, and other military officials linked to Machar earlier in the week.
These detentions coincide with intense clashes in Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army militia, which mainly consists of armed Nuer fighters, Machar’s ethnic group. The government, represented by Information Minister Michael Makuei, has not acknowledged the arrests but accused Machar’s forces of collaborating with the White Army in an attack near Nasir.
Both the White Army and Machar’s forces were involved in a previous civil war from 2013 to 2018, which resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Since a peace agreement in 2018, major conflicts have been avoided, yet periodic violence remains prevalent, exacerbated by the civil war in Sudan which has armed various groups.
Kuol played an essential role in the 2018 peace negotiations. Church leaders have also expressed concern regarding the escalating violence, urging for dialogue to mitigate the rising political tensions. Analyst Daniel Akech Thiong from the International Crisis Group warned that the recent arrests may provoke opposition-linked armed groups to retaliate against government positions.
Additionally, the administration has postponed the national elections scheduled for this year until December 2026, citing a need for additional preparation time for a stable electoral process.
In summary, the arrests of key political figures and military officials in South Sudan signify a troubling escalation in the political standoff between the government and the opposition. As tensions rise, church leaders and analysts call for urgent dialogue to prevent further violence. The ongoing conflict and delayed elections also underscore the fragile state of peace in South Sudan, raising concerns about advocacy for stability in the region.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
