The IGAD warned that recent clashes in South Sudan are escalating tensions towards war. Following a UN helicopter attack, concerns rise about the stability of the fragile 2018 power-sharing deal. President Kiir has vowed to avoid conflict, yet the ongoing violence presents serious risks to peace efforts.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has issued a warning regarding escalating violence in South Sudan, stating that recent clashes are driving the nation perilously close to war. This warning is particularly pertinent given the country’s history of political turmoil and economic hardship. In recent weeks, confrontations between factions loyal to competing political leaders have heightened tensions, particularly in the northeast region.
Last week, a critical incident occurred when a United Nations helicopter, tasked with rescuing troops, was attacked, resulting in the death of a UN crew member and a South Sudanese general. President Salva Kiir reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace, insisting that the country would not revert to armed conflict. However, these clashes pose a significant threat to the fragile power-sharing arrangement established in 2018, which brought to an end a protracted five-year civil war between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
In light of these developments, IGAD highlighted that this cycle of violence, characterized by ongoing clashes and political instability, risks unraveling any advancements achieved toward peace. The organization emphasized the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation to avert a return to full-scale conflict in South Sudan.
In summary, the ongoing clashes in South Sudan are escalating tensions and threatening the tenuous peace achieved through the 2018 power-sharing deal. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development has raised alarms about the potential return to war if current violence persists. The situation calls for immediate attention to dialogue and conflict resolution efforts to ensure stability in the region.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
