The National Security Service has arrested Stephen Par Kuol, part of widening detentions involving Machar-aligned officials following escalating violence in Upper Nile State. Accusations of collaboration between these factions highlight ongoing tensions. Church leaders and analysts caution that these developments may lead to retaliatory violence, complicating the political landscape ahead of delayed elections.
The National Security Service has arrested Honourable Stephen Par Kuol, as announced by Machar’s Spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, on social media platform X. This incident follows earlier detentions of senior officials, including the Petroleum Minister and the Deputy Head of the Army, all considered allies of Machar.
These arrests were initiated after heavy fighting erupted in the northern Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army militia, comprised mostly of Nuer, which is Machar’s ethnic group. Although the government has not officially commented on the arrests, Information Minister Michael Makuei has accused Machar’s forces of coordinating with the White Army in assaults on military installations near Nasir.
During the previous civil war from 2013 to 2018, the White Army allied with Machar’s troops against predominantly Dinka forces loyal to President Kiir. This conflict resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and displaced 2.5 million people, mere years after South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan.
Although a peace agreement in 2018 has maintained relative calm, localized violence persists, exacerbated by the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan which enhances the availability of weapons to armed groups. Kuol, who played a significant role in the peace negotiations, is now embroiled in escalating tensions.
In a recent address, church leaders condemned the rising insecurity and urged for dialogue to address the political strife. Daniel Akech Thiong, a senior analyst from the International Crisis Group, warned that the arrests might trigger retaliation from armed groups linked to the opposition against government bases in Upper Nile and Jonglei states.
Moreover, it is noted that the government has delayed national elections until December 2026, citing the need for further preparations to establish an elected government.
The recent arrests in South Sudan reflect heightened political tensions and deteriorating security conditions, primarily surrounding the ongoing conflict between Machar’s forces and the government. The international insight suggests that retaliatory actions from opposition-linked groups may ensue, further complicating an already fragile peace. As national elections remain postponed, the call for dialogue intensifies among peace advocates.
Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za
