Riek Machar, the First Vice President of South Sudan, was arrested amidst escalating tensions in Juba, raising fears of renewed conflict. The United Nations has warned that the nation is on the brink of widespread violence after reports of clashes between rival forces and significant displacement of citizens.
The recent arrest of Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First Vice President, has created alarm within the nation. His detention occurred in Juba, executed by a significant presence of “20 heavily armed vehicles,” as reported by Machar’s SPLM-IO party through its Foreign Relations Committee chairman. The party condemned what it termed as unconstitutional actions taken by the Minister of Defense and the Chief of National Security, stating that the charges against Machar remain unclear.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has expressed deep concern regarding the escalation in the country. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, indicated that the current circumstances could either lead to widespread conflict or encourage progress towards peace. He urged all parties involved to exercise restraint for the stability of the nation.
In the last 24 hours, clashes between factions loyal to Machar and President Salva Kiir have been reported, contributing to rising tensions. The international community has reacted strongly, with countries such as Norway and Germany temporarily closing their embassies amid fears of civil war resurgence. The United Nations estimates that approximately 50,000 individuals have been displaced due to ongoing conflict in the Upper Nile region since the previous month.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious following the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar, which has raised fears of renewed conflict. With significant displacement and international concern growing, the actions of both government and rebel forces will be critical to the nation’s future peace and stability. Calls for restraint from UNMISS emphasize the urgent need for dialogue in avoiding further escalation of violence.
Original Source: www.dw.com
