Political arrests in South Sudan, linked to recent violence in Nasir, heighten fears of conflict. Notable detentions include Minister of Peacebuilding Stephen Par Kuol and other Machar allies, raising alarms about the fragile peace established since the civil war. Analysts warn that the situation could escalate if tensions are not addressed.
The recent arrest of several politicians in South Sudan has raised alarms regarding the precarious state of peace within the nation. The arrests, linked to escalating violence in Nasir, involved officials closely associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. Notably, Stephen Par Kuol, the Minister of Peacebuilding, was apprehended by government security forces, reflecting a troubling trend of detentions among Machar’s allies.
In addition to Kuol, other prominent figures such as Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Head of the Army Gabriel Duop Lam also faced arrests. Puok Both Baluang, Machar’s spokesperson, publicly expressed concern over the lack of information regarding the detentions, suggesting that the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition is unaware of the whereabouts of their officials.
Baluang further criticized the government’s recent military deployment to Machar’s residence, arguing that such actions undermine trust between parties and hinder efforts to de-escalate ongoing violence. Observers have linked these political arrests to recent clashes in Nasir between state forces and the White Army militia, predominantly consisting of fighters from the Nuer ethnic group, which has historical ties to Machar.
The White Army previously fought alongside Machar against President Salva Kiir’s forces during South Sudan’s devastating civil war. Despite a fragile peace deal established in 2018, the situation remains volatile, with experts warning that renewed conflict could erupt due to the recent tensions. While the South Sudanese government downplays the possibility of war, analysts assert that the fragile peace is increasingly vulnerable to collapse.
In summary, the recent political arrests in South Sudan signal a potential threat to the already delicate peace established since the civil war’s end. With key politicians allied to First Vice President Riek Machar detained and rising tensions in Nasir, there is growing apprehension regarding the stability of the nation. Observers emphasize that if such hostilities continue, South Sudan could face the risk of returning to widespread violence.
Original Source: www.okayafrica.com
