South Sudan’s peacebuilding minister was arrested, adding to the growing number of detentions targeting allies of First Vice President Riek Machar. Concerns are mounting over the fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Machar, particularly amid rising tensions and violence in the Upper Nile State. The international community has urged for an end to hostilities and emphasized the necessity for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders.
The South Sudanese government has recently arrested Minister of Peacebuilding, Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, marking the third high-profile detainment of an ally of First Vice President Riek Machar. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the stability of the fragile peace agreement established in 2018 to bring an end to the civil war between President Salva Kiir and Machar.
Kuol’s arrest was confirmed by Machar’s press secretary, Puok Both Baluang, who stated that the National Security Service (NSS) apprehended Kuol from his office. Prior to this, both the oil minister and the deputy military chief, who are also affiliated with Machar’s Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), were detained within a span of two days.
These recent actions have heightened fears of potential unrest and a breakdown of the current unity government, exacerbated by rising violent clashes in the Upper Nile State between government forces and Machar’s rebels. The United Nations has warned of escalating hostilities involving heavy weaponry in this region.
In response, regional and Western powers have urged an immediate ceasefire, with several embassies, including those of the United States, Britain, and the European Union, emphasizing the need for Juba-based leaders to prioritize peaceful dialogue and the welfare of the South Sudanese populace.
Political maneuvers by President Kiir, such as the recent dismissal of two vice presidents from his unity government without proper consultation, have drawn criticism. Analysts suggest that these actions are aimed at consolidating Kiir’s power while marginalizing Machar further within the political sphere.
In conclusion, the arrest of Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, alongside other allies of First Vice President Riek Machar, illustrates the ongoing political tensions in South Sudan. This situation poses a significant threat to the peace agreement established in 2018 and could lead to further instability, particularly in regions afflicted by violence. The international community’s call for dialogue and peaceful resolution underscores the critical need for cooperation among South Sudan’s leadership to ensure the nation’s future stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
