President Salva Kiir of South Sudan dismissed ambassador Monica Achol Abel amid increasing political tensions, while relations with Vice President Riek Machar have deteriorated. The National Security Service is arresting key officials, raising concerns about stability. Kenyan President William Ruto is urging dialogue to foster peace.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed Monica Achol Abel from her position as the ambassador to Kenya, just four months after her credential presentation to President William Ruto. The decision, which came without justification, aligns with Kiir’s pattern of executing firings and reshuffles, typically observed on Mondays and Wednesdays.
The current political atmosphere in South Sudan is increasingly fraught, marked by deteriorating relations between President Kiir and his first vice president, Riek Machar. Armed forces have gathered around Machar’s residence, amplifying concerns regarding potential instability within the fragile coalition government.
In addition to Abel’s dismissal, the South Sudan National Security Service (NSS) is intensifying its crackdown on political figures. Recent arrests include the detention of Peacebuilding Minister Stephen Par Kuol and Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol, indicating an escalating internal power struggle within the administration.
Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed concern over the rising tensions. He has engaged in discussions with both Kiir and Machar, urging them towards dialogue and peace negotiations. Ruto indicated, “I implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the country, even as the region works towards the stabilisation of South Sudan under IGAD’s Strategic Framework.”
South Sudan’s history is marred by unresolved conflicts, having first descended into civil war in December 2013 due to internal political strife. Ethnic divisions exacerbated the violence, leading to widespread suffering and displacement. Multiple peace efforts have been attempted, yet the situation remains unstable, with the most recent agreement in 2018 failing to fully resolve the ongoing tensions.
In summary, the abrupt dismissal of Ambassador Monica Achol Abel by President Salva Kiir underscores the escalating political turmoil in South Sudan. The deteriorating relationship between Kiir and Riek Machar, coupled with increasing government repression and political arrests, reveals a pressing need for renewed diplomatic efforts. The future peace of South Sudan hinges on effective dialogue and resolution strategies amidst these deepening crises.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
