South Sudan has demanded the White Army to vacate military zones, particularly Nasir, or risk military action. Information Minister Makuei warned civilians in these areas will be viewed as combatants. In light of recent clashes and potential support from the SPLM/A-IO, the government faces increasing tensions. Uganda has deployed forces to support President Kiir, complicating the situation further.
The government of South Sudan has issued a strict directive to the White Army, a militia group linked to the Nuer ethnic community, demanding their immediate withdrawal from Nasir and other conflict zones. Recent clashes have resulted in significant casualties, including the death of a UN staff member and an SSPDF general, prompting this ultimatum.
Information Minister Michael Makuei emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning, “The White Army that claims to be civilians and who have decided to take up arms against the government must go back to their respective home before we take any action.” He further specified that civilians remaining in military zones would be treated as combatants, stating, “If you continue to stay in those areas, then you are a negative force, and the necessary force will be used against you.”
The military actions initiated by the government include airstrikes targeting the Nasir airstrip to hinder the White Army from receiving supplies. This escalation of hostilities echoes the political tensions seen before South Sudan’s civil war in 2015, leading to widespread displacement and violence, which is of growing concern to United Nations officials.
The recent engagements over Nasir have intensified accusations against the SPLM/A-IO for supporting the White Army’s offensive, resulting in increased government crackdowns and the detention of opposition leaders. Riek Machar, the leader of SPLM/A-IO, articulated his frustrations with the peace process, noting, “Many may not know, but I am probably the first vice president in the world who has been under house arrest for seven years and is still active in the government.”
Meanwhile, Uganda has reaffirmed its support for President Kiir, with its Parliament approving the deployment of armed forces to stabilize the region. Ugandan army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba asserted that any threat against Kiir would be viewed as a declaration of war, underscoring the geopolitical implications of the internal conflict in South Sudan.
In conclusion, the South Sudan government’s warning to the White Army signifies a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict. The potential for renewed violence highlights parallels to past civil unrest and raises alarms from international observers. The involvement of Uganda further complicates the situation, emphasizing the need for dialogues prioritizing stability and peace.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
