The SPLM-IO party has suspended its role in the peace process of South Sudan due to escalating tensions with President Salva Kiir’s government. This development follows increased violence, detentions of SPLM-IO officials, and accusations of collaboration with militia groups. UN officials express concern over a potential relapse into civil war due to rampant disinformation and hate speech, alongside influences from the conflict in Sudan.
A significant political development in South Sudan has emerged as the SPLM-IO party, led by First Vice President Riek Machar, announced its suspension from crucial components of the 2018 peace agreement. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between Machar and President Salva Kiir, exacerbated by recent clashes and arrests in the country. The 2018 agreement aimed to conclude a prolonged conflict between their respective forces but has faced challenges in implementation.
SPLM-IO leaders, including the petroleum minister and deputy army chief, were detained earlier this month as security forces acted on the backdrop of conflict involving the White Army militia. The government alleges ties between the SPLM-IO and the White Army, a claim the party vehemently refutes. Deputy chairman Oyet Nathaniel Pierino has indicated that the SPLM-IO will refrain from engaging in security arrangements until the detained officials are released.
Pierino remarked, “The ongoing political witch-hunts continue to threaten the very essence and the existence of the (peace deal).” The violence around Nasir has resulted in the displacement of over 50,000 individuals, with a significant number seeking refuge in Ethiopia, as highlighted by the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator, Anita Kiki Gbeho.
Concerns regarding South Sudan’s stability have escalated, with Nicholas Haysom, the UN peacekeeping chief, stating the country is “on the brink of relapse into civil war” due to rising hate speech and misinformation. Analysts suggest that ongoing conflicts in neighboring Sudan contribute to the deterioration of the peace process and heighten tensions in the region.
Alan Boswell from the International Crisis Group indicated that initial spillover effects from the Sudanese conflict are already evident in Upper Nile, underscoring the likelihood of tensions spreading to South Sudan’s capital, Juba.
The SPLM-IO’s partial withdrawal from peace processes in South Sudan marks a critical juncture amid intensified conflicts and political strife. The detainment of key officials and accusations against the party jeopardize the fragile peace established in 2018. With rising ethnic tensions and external influences from neighboring conflicts, the risk of renewed civil war looms over South Sudan, prompting urgent calls for dialogue and resolution.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
