South Sudan is on the brink of renewed civil war, according to UN envoy Nicolas Haysom, following the government’s delay in peace talks. The longstanding ethnic tensions and political distrust between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar pose significant risks. International diplomatic efforts are ongoing to prevent a return to violence and uphold the peace deal established in 2018.
South Sudan is facing a critical juncture, with the potential for renewed civil war, as highlighted by the United Nations envoy Nicolas Haysom. The situation is characterized as “dire,” primarily due to the government’s abrupt postponement of peace negotiations. Haysom emphasized that a sustainable peaceful resolution hinges on the willingness of President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar to prioritize the welfare of their citizens over personal interests.
Since its independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has been marred by conflict, with a civil war erupting in December 2013 owing to ethnic tensions. This war, which resulted in over 40,000 deaths, concluded with a 2018 peace agreement uniting Kiir and Machar in a government of national unity. Although elections were scheduled for February 2023, they have been postponed to December 2024 and then to 2026.
Current unrest stems from escalating violence in the northern regions, specifically between government forces and the rebel group known as the White Army, believed to be allied with Machar. A recent armed confrontation in the town of Nasir resulted in casualties, including a South Sudanese general, further aggravating tensions. Haysom indicated that such discord is exacerbated as political competition intensifies, undermining trust between Kiir and Machar.
Additionally, he noted that growing misinformation and hate speech are intensifying ethnic divisions and fear within the country. Haysom outlined the urgency of the situation, stating that South Sudan is precariously close to a return to civil conflict, reminiscent of the turmoil seen in 2013 and 2016.
To avert such a crisis, Haysom has engaged in shuttle diplomacy with both international and regional stakeholders, including the African Union. He stressed that the collective message from the international community urges Kiir and Machar to meet, address their disputes amicably, uphold the 2018 peace agreement, and resolve issues through dialogue rather than military means.
In conclusion, South Sudan is at a critical crossroads, with the potential for renewed civil war looming due to political instability and ethnic tensions. The UN envoy underscores the need for leadership from President Kiir and Vice President Machar to prioritize the peace agreement and foster dialogue. The ongoing international diplomatic efforts aim to prevent a relapse into violence, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation for a stable future in South Sudan.
Original Source: apnews.com
