Kenya’s President William Ruto has urged South Sudanese leaders to prioritize dialogue to address escalating violence threatening a peace agreement from a prior civil war. Recent clashes have resulted in deaths and arrests of key officials, heightening tensions and jeopardizing stability. Ruto emphasizes regional discussions for a resolution.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for calm amidst escalating tensions in South Sudan, urging leaders to engage in dialogue to help resolve conflicts that threaten a fragile peace agreement from a previous civil war. In discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, Ruto emphasized the need for cooperation and stated that regional consultations are ongoing to address the crisis effectively.
The recent clashes in Upper Nile State, specifically in the town of Nasir, involve confrontations between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the civilian militia known as the White Army. This violence has significantly heightened tensions within the capital, Juba, resulting in the detention of several officials from the SPLM/A-IO, led by Machar, raising fears about the stability of governance and the future of the 2018 peace agreement.
Reports confirm over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries from recent violence. Machar’s spokesperson revealed that several of his allies, including two ministers, have been arrested amid the turmoil, prompting accusations from the government against the SPLM/A-IO for attacking official positions. Machar condemned the removal of his colleagues and warned that it jeopardizes the existing peace framework, which has struggled with implementation since its inception, particularly in forming a unified national military.
In summary, President William Ruto’s appeal for dialogue among South Sudanese leaders underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to escalating tensions that threaten the country’s peace agreement. The recent violence and subsequent arrests highlight the fragility of political stability and the challenges in unifying armed factions. It is imperative that leaders prioritize dialogue to preserve the peace process and ensure national security.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
