The security situation in South Sudan is deteriorating, with rising tensions between political factions risking relapse into civil war. Attacks on civilians have caused significant displacement, prompting international concern. Diplomatic efforts continue, focusing on adherence to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, while humanitarian and economic crises deepen.
The security situation in South Sudan has dramatically declined, primarily due to rising tensions between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), headed by First Vice President Riek Machar. This escalating conflict threatens to plunge the country back into civil war, raising urgent calls for international action.
On March 4th, the White Army militia overtook military barracks previously occupied by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), leading to retaliatory airstrikes on civilian areas across the Upper Nile region. Such attacks, which reportedly utilized incendiary devices, have resulted in numerous casualties and injuries, displacing an estimate of 100,000 individuals from their homes.
Concerns are mounting regarding the potential escalation of violence in Upper Nile, exacerbated by reports of continued recruitment by both the White Army and SSPDF, including allegations of child soldiers being enlisted. On March 24th, clashes between the SSPDF and SPLM-IO forces erupted in the capital Juba, heightening fears that the conflict could spread, reminiscent of the civil wars in 2013 and 2016.
Amidst the violence, several SPLM-IO military and civilian officials have been removed, some detained or forced into hiding. Notably, on March 26, it was reported that Riek Machar was placed under house arrest, further complicating the political landscape. Nicholas Haysom, head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), expressed that the nation is on the brink of returning to civil war, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
The UN and its partners, including the African Union and East Africa’s Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), are striving to avert a resurgence of war that could devastate both South Sudan and the broader region. Diplomatic initiatives are underway, but their success hinges on the willingness of involved parties to genuinely pursue peace and reconciliation.
The UN Secretary General highlighted the critical situation, urging South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize peace over conflict, stating, “Put down the weapons… Put all the people of South Sudan first.”
Background context reveals that South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in 2011, which was soon followed by civil strife erupting in 2013. The consequent conflict was marked by severe ethnic violence and devastating humanitarian repercussions. Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018, its implementation has stalled significantly, increasing the likelihood of renewed warfare amid a dire humanitarian crisis affecting over nine million people who require assistance. The situation has been worsened by a significant influx of returnees and refugees from Sudan, rampant cholera outbreaks, and a spiraling economic crisis characterized by plummeting oil revenues and inflation exceeding 300%.
Established in 2011 to foster peace and security in the new nation, UNMISS is now focused on preventing civil war, promoting self-reliance, and addressing crucial gaps in governance and elections in South Sudan.
In summary, South Sudan is facing a precarious situation marked by rising violence and political instability. The potential return to civil war threatens to undo hard-won gains made since the 2018 peace agreement. As humanitarian needs escalate, with millions requiring assistance amidst economic turmoil, the international community is urged to intervene decisively to promote peace and stability. Leaders of South Sudan must prioritize dialogue and cooperation to avert further catastrophe.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org
