The R-ARCISS in South Sudan has failed to materialize due to leaders’ lack of political will, evidenced by a series of unlawful arrests and continued violence. Despite existing for six years, the peace agreement is characterized by dysfunction and neglect, leaving the nation at risk of further instability. Key events, including military actions against opposition forces and dismissals without due process, reflect a systematic undermining of peace efforts.
The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCISS) has failed to take root due to the leaders’ inability to implement peace accords effectively. This persistent ineffectiveness has rendered the agreement lifeless, evidencing a disregard for both the citizens and international expectations. The author’s skepticism about R-ARCISS stems from the historical challenges faced by South Sudan, including a pervasive lack of political commitment and self-serving leadership mentality.
After six years, South Sudan remains entrenched in instability, deprived of justice, development, and democratic reform, despite the R-ARCISS existing on paper. The absence of tangible peace is evident as leaders engage in antagonistic actions that contradict the agreement, particularly in the Greater Upper Nile and Unity State regions.
Recent events across three states exemplify the continued undermining of political rivals, including unlawful arrests of SPLM-IO figures, which signal broader governmental maneuvers. In multiple states, arrests signal a targeting strategy against opposition members, indicating potential violence and unrest in the region.
On January 15, 2025, the SSPDF conducted a military march into Nasir and Ulang counties, falsely justifying the presence of troops. This incursion, led by General Olony Dak Thubo, represents an alarming breach of peace, prioritizing disarmament instead of restoring order with the Unified Forces, thus endangering the broader peace process.
Furthermore, the dismissal of Governor General Alfred Futuyo of Western Bahr El Ghazal on February 10, 2025, without SPLM-IO consent illustrates a violation of the agreement and has borne violent consequences. This echo of past political purges casts doubt on the peaceful intentions of the current leadership.
The arbitrary arrests of SPLM-IO officials such as Minister Puot Kang Chuol exemplify further breaches against R-ARCISS and the Interim Constitution, where detainees should be presented before a court—a step ignored entirely.
Additionally, the besiegement of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar’s residence on March 5, 2025, underscores the precarious nature of the political situation, with evasions from officials reflecting the underlying tensions and fear of igniting unrest within the populace.
Calls for restraint from President Salva Kiir are crucial, as aggressive actions against peace partners like Dr. Machar could provoke chaos, undermining existing negotiations aimed toward reconciliation. Transparency and goodwill from the SPLM-IG are essential moving forward for any hope of achieving lasting peace in South Sudan.
The ongoing political turmoil in South Sudan, punctuated by violations of the R-ARCISS, underscores a critical need for accountability among leaders. The pattern of antagonism, unlawful arrests, and political purges not only invalidates the peace agreement but also perpetuates violence and instability. For the nation to progress toward peace, it is imperative that the government acts in a manner that fosters trust and cooperation with opposition leaders, ensuring that the grievances of the marginalized populace are addressed with sincerity and commitment.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
