The establishment of South Sudan in 2011 was intended to signify a new beginning; however, ongoing political mistrust and ethnic divisions continue to destabilize the nation. Recent conflicts among armed factions and government forces indicate that the challenges facing the peace agreement remain serious. President Kiir has urged citizens to refrain from violence, pledging to maintain peace amid increasing unrest.
In 2011, the formation of the Republic of South Sudan was anticipated to bring significant change, liberating the nation from the historical burden of Arabization and Islamization associated with previous Sudanese regimes. However, persistent internal divisions and political mistrust continue to plague South Sudan, hindering its progress towards stability.
Recent violent confrontations between an armed faction and government forces have exacerbated existing tensions. Notably, the arrest of a deputy army chief linked to Vice President Riek Machar, coupled with military encirclement of Machar’s residence, threatens to destabilize the fragile peace agreement established post-civil war.
According to AP News, South Sudan experienced a brutal civil war from 2013 until 2018, leading to over 400,000 fatalities. Although a peace accord was signed in 2018 between President Salva Kiir and his rival Machar, its implementation remains a challenge, stalling vital reforms necessary for lasting peace.
Military conflicts have recently flared in Upper Nile State, involving the White Army—a group once allied with Machar—against government forces. The BBC highlights that while the power-sharing agreement of 2018 was expected to halt hostilities, many critical components, such as a new constitution, elections, and the unification of armed factions, have yet to be realized.
In response to these developments, President Kiir has urged South Sudanese citizens to exercise patience and not resort to violence. He proclaimed, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take law into their hands.” Kiir reassured the public that his government remains committed to maintaining peace and addressing ongoing crises effectively.
The instability affecting Sudan and South Sudan is perpetuated by deep-seated ethnic, political, and military divisions that continue to obstruct any attempts at cohesion or reform.
The prospects for stability in South Sudan remain tenuous as ongoing ethnic and political strife hinder progress. Recent violent incidents underscore the fragility of peace accords established post-civil war. President Kiir’s assurances regarding peace must be realized through effective governance and the implementation of crucial reforms to avoid a regression into conflict.
Original Source: moderntokyotimes.com
