South Sudan risks renewed civil war as tensions rise between President Kiir and Vice President Machar, following election delays and violence from rebel groups. UN envoy Nicolas Haysom emphasizes the urgent need for peace dialogues to avert conflict and restore stability.
South Sudan stands on the brink of renewed civil conflict as highlighted by the United Nations envoy, Nicolas Haysom. His remarks follow the government’s unexpected postponement of a key peace initiative. He emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved if President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar prioritize their citizens’ welfare over personal interests.
Since achieving independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with internal strife, descending into civil war in December 2013, largely fueled by ethnic tensions between Kiir’s Dinka and Machar’s Nuer factions. The conflict resulted in over 40,000 fatalities, eventually calming temporarily due to a 2018 peace agreement that unified their governance.
Initially scheduled for February 2023, elections have now been postponed to December 2024, and again to 2026, raising concerns among citizens. Recent unrest, particularly in the north, involves clashes between government forces and the White Army, a rebel group allegedly associated with Machar. A recent UN helicopter incident highlighted the volatility, as military operations turned deadly, underscoring the fragile security situation.
Haysom noted that as electoral tensions rise, hostilities intensify, owing to the distrust between Kiir and Machar. The environment is marred by disinformation, inciting ethnic discord. He stated, “Given this grim situation, we are left with no other conclusion but to assess that South Sudan is teetering on the edge of a relapse into civil war.”
He warned that a resurgence of open conflict could mirror the devastating violence of past years. To avert this scenario, extensive diplomatic efforts are underway, targeting both regional and international stakeholders, calling for reconciliatory dialogue and adherence to the peace agreement. The UN is pressing for immediate meetings between Kiir and Machar, urging them to engage in constructive discourse to defuse rising tensions and encourage stability in South Sudan.
In summary, South Sudan is at a critical juncture, facing potential civil war due to heightened ethnic tensions and postponed elections. UN envoy Nicolas Haysom underscores the need for leadership and commitment from Kiir and Machar to restore peace. The situation is dire, necessitating urgent cooperation and dialogue to prevent a regression into violence and preserve the fragile stability of the nation.
Original Source: apnews.com
