Kenyan President William Ruto has urged South Sudan’s leaders to engage in dialogue to combat escalating violence that threatens a vital peace agreement ending five years of civil war. Following clashes in Upper Nile State, tensions have risen in Juba, resulting in significant arrests among the armed factions. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in unifying groups within the peace framework.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for peace in South Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue among its leaders due to a deteriorating security situation threatening a crucial peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil war. Ruto communicated this appeal during a conversation with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, urging both to engage in discussions to enhance stability in the nation.
During his address on Thursday, Ruto informed the leaders that regional consultations are in progress to identify effective strategies for addressing the unrest in South Sudan. His statement was released by the presidency in Nairobi, reflecting a commitment to fostering tranquility within the region amidst escalating tensions.
The urgency of the situation arises from recent clashes in Upper Nile State, which began in mid-February between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the White Army, an armed civilian group. The conflict has intensified in Nasir, a strategic locality, causing unrest even in Juba, the capital, where it resulted in the detainment of several senior officials from the SPLM/A-IO, led by Machar.
Reports indicate over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries in the vicinity of Nasir, which has turned deserted due to the violence. Machar’s spokesperson confirmed that two ministers and other high-ranking military officials allied with him have been arrested, while additional military leaders are under house arrest due to security operations.
Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services Michael Makuei Lueth acknowledged these arrests, asserting they stemmed from legal conflicts. He accused the SPLM/A-IO of launching attacks on governmental positions in Nasir. Furthermore, Machar condemned the removal of his associates from government in February, warning that such actions jeopardize the peace agreement established in 2018, which has struggled with delays and the unification of armed factions into a cohesive national army.
In summary, Kenya’s President William Ruto has emphasized the necessity of dialogue to secure peace in South Sudan amidst rising tensions and violent clashes. Recent confrontations in Upper Nile State highlight the fragility of the 2018 peace agreement, which faces continual challenges, particularly with the arrest of notable political and military figures. The success of ongoing regional consultations remains critical for stabilizing the situation in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.thestatesman.com
