The recent arrest of South Sudan’s peacebuilding minister amid escalating political conflict signals a severe deterioration in relations between President Salva Kiir’s and Riek Machar’s factions. These actions coincide with ongoing violence in Upper Nile State, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of civil war. Church leaders and analysts urge dialogue to prevent further deterioration of peace.
On Thursday, South Sudanese forces loyal to President Salva Kiir escalated tensions by arresting the peacebuilding minister, Stephen Par Kuol, exacerbating the ongoing political standoff. This action was confirmed by Riek Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, stating that the minister was taken from his office by the National Security Service (NSS). Earlier in the week, military officials, including the petroleum minister and deputy army head, were also detained, reflecting increasing hostilities against Machar’s allies.
These arrests have coincided with violent clashes in the northern Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army militia, predominantly composed of Nuer members, Machar’s ethnic group. In a statement, Information Minister Michael Makuei accused forces loyal to Machar of collaborating with the militia to attack a military garrison in Nasir, deepening the crisis in the region.
Historically, the White Army fought alongside Machar’s troops in the devastating civil war from 2013 to 2018, which resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and the displacement of 2.5 million individuals. Despite a peace agreement in 2018 that reduced violence, tensions persist, partly fueled by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has armed groups seeking weapons.
Minister Kuol, who played a critical role in the peace negotiations, faced arrests alongside escalating militant activities. Church leaders have called attention to the rising threats against peace, urging for immediate dialogue to address the mounting insecurity. Daniel Akech Thiong, a senior analyst from the International Crisis Group, warned that these arrests could provoke armed responses from opposition-linked groups targeting government installations, risking further violence.
In a significant political development, the government announced a postponement of national elections to December 2026, citing a need for additional preparation time, indicating a continued delay in establishing an elected government in South Sudan.
The arrest of key political figures in South Sudan marks a troubling escalation in an already volatile political landscape, potentially leading to renewed conflict. With accusations of collusion between Machar’s allies and insurgent forces and ongoing violence in Upper Nile State, the situation remains precarious. Dialogue and efforts towards peace are essential to mitigate tensions and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
