South Sudan’s Deputy President, Riek Machar, has threatened to withdraw from the 2018 peace agreement following the dismissal of senior officials in a government reshuffle. He demands the reinstatement of Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng and Governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba within 24 hours, citing violations of the power-sharing accord. The political tensions highlight ongoing challenges in implementing the peace agreement and maintaining stability since the country’s independence in 2011.
South Sudan’s Deputy President, Riek Machar, has issued a stark warning indicating he may withdraw from the tenuous peace agreement established in 2018, due to a recent cabinet reshuffle that resulted in the dismissal of several high-ranking officials, including Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng and General Alfred Futuyo Karaba, the governor of Western Equatoria state. Machar emphasized that he demands the reinstatement of these officials within 24 hours. Such dismissals are perceived by Machar as violations of the existing power-sharing agreement, which he asserts must be respected to avoid further tensions.
The political backdrop of this crisis stems from Machar’s long-standing rivalry with President Salva Kiir, which has historically escalated to open conflict. Following the 2018 agreement, Machar assumed the role of First Vice President. His recent statement underscores his administration’s intolerance of continued breaches of the peace deal, reflecting apprehension about stability in South Sudan.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with instability, culminating in civil war driven by ethnic tensions in 2013. The peace agreement brokered in 2018 aimed to resolve these conflicts and restore governing order, yet the implementation of critical reforms has faced significant hurdles, including the unification of the military command. Furthermore, the holding of presidential elections has been delayed multiple times, currently set for 2026.
The international community remains concerned about the political stagnation and failure to meet crucial milestones within the unity government. United Nations experts have previously indicated that South Sudan’s stability hangs in the balance, reflecting the dire need for progress and adherence to the agreements laid out in the peace deal.
In summary, South Sudan’s Deputy President Riek Machar faces a critical juncture regarding the peace agreement with President Salva Kiir, triggered by the recent dismissal of several officials. This situation emphasizes the fragile nature of South Sudan’s political landscape, deeply influenced by past conflicts and the urgent need for compliance with existing agreements to ensure stability. Without addressing these issues, the prospect for peace in South Sudan remains precarious.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
