South Sudan’s forces have arrested Peacebuilding Minister Hon. Stephen Par Kuol amidst rising tensions and accusations against Riek Machar’s allies. Following recent violent clashes in the Upper Nile State, church leaders and analysts warn of the potential for civil unrest. The government’s delay of national elections adds to the complexity of the political situation.
South Sudanese forces aligned with President Salva Kiir have recently intensified their crackdown on allies of First Vice President Riek Machar, resulting in the arrest of Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, the peacebuilding minister. This action raises concerns among church leaders regarding a potential return to civil war. Puok Both Baluang, spokesperson for Machar, reported on the arrest via X earlier today.
The arrests, which also included the petroleum minister and senior military figures loyal to Machar, are taking place amidst violent clashes in the Upper Nile State involving national forces and the White Army, a militia comprising primarily of Machar’s Nuer ethnic group. The government has yet to provide official comment on the current situation.
Information Minister Michael Makuei accused Machar’s forces of collaborating with the White Army in recent attacks on military installations near Nasir. The White Army had previously allied with Machar’s forces during the 2013-2018 civil war, which resulted in approximately 400,000 fatalities and displaced 2.5 million individuals.
Despite a peace agreement established in 2018 resulting in a degree of stability, localized conflicts continue while the civil unrest in Sudan has granted increased access to weapons for armed factions. Kuol, a key participant in the peace negotiations, was arrested earlier today. Church leaders have expressed their concern over rising political tensions and violence, urging for dialogue to resolve the conflicts.
Daniel Akech Thiong, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, indicated that these continuous arrests may lead to a serious escalation, potentially inciting opposition-linked armed groups to target government bases in Upper Nile and Jonglei. Last year, the government postponed national elections previously set for 2023, now rescheduled for December 2026, citing the need for further preparation.
In summary, the escalating tension in South Sudan, marked by the recent arrest of key political figures associated with Riek Machar, raises alarm among local leaders and analysts. The accusations of alliances with the White Army and the potential for increased violence underscore the fragile peace in the nation. As church leaders call for dialogue, the postponement of elections further complicates the political landscape, indicating a need for urgent diplomatic intervention.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
