Kenyan President William Ruto has called for dialogue in South Sudan to quell escalating violence that threatens a crucial peace agreement. Recent clashes in Upper Nile State have resulted in fatalities and arrests of key officials, indicating severe unrest in the region. Ruto emphasized the need for calm and regional consultations to restore stability.
Kenyan President William Ruto has urged for peace in South Sudan amid escalating security clashes that threaten an existing peace agreement, which was implemented to conclude a five-year civil war. In discussions with South Sudanese leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, Ruto emphasized the importance of dialogue in restoring order and stability in South Sudan, as the region seeks a viable framework for peace.
Following recent clashes in Upper Nile State, particularly in the strategic town of Nasir, tensions have surged in Juba. This violence, which erupted between South Sudan’s People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups known as the White Army, has resulted in numerous casualties and several arrests of senior military officials affiliated with Machar’s faction, the SPLM/A-IO. Ruto’s statement highlights that regional consultations are in progress to consider possible solutions to the growing unrest.
Fighting has led to significant unrest, with over 20 fatalities reported near Nasir, a region now largely abandoned, located on the South Sudan-Ethiopia border. Machar’s spokesperson noted that several ministers and military leaders associated with Machar were detained, with more officials placed under house arrest. Makuei Lueth, Minister of Information, confirmed these detentions and accused the SPLM/A-IO of instigating the recent attacks against government forces.
In conclusion, President William Ruto of Kenya has called for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to address the escalating violence and to work toward stabilizing the country. The security situation threatens the fragile peace agreement that ended a prolonged civil war. The recent arrests and ongoing clashes underscore the challenges faced in achieving lasting peace in South Sudan, necessitating immediate and collaborative efforts from regional and international players.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
