The National Security Service arrested Honourable Stephen Par Kuol, following similar arrests of high-ranking officials close to Riek Machar amid ongoing violence in Upper Nile State. Information Minister Michael Makuei accused Machar’s forces of colluding with the White Army. Despite a 2018 peace deal, violence persists, fueled by the civil war in Sudan. Church leaders have called for dialogue, highlighting escalating tensions and insecurity in South Sudan.
The National Security Service has recently arrested Honourable Stephen Par Kuol from his office, as announced by Machar’s Spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, on X. This incident follows the earlier arrests of several high-ranking officials, including the Petroleum Minister and the Deputy Head of the Army, associated with Riek Machar, amidst intense fighting in the Upper Nile State between national forces and the White Army militia, which primarily comprises Nuer individuals, Machar’s ethnic group.
The government has yet to comment on these arrests. However, Information Minister Michael Makuei accused Machar’s loyal forces of being in collusion with the White Army, which attacked a military garrison near Nasir, Upper Nile, earlier in the week. The White Army previously fought alongside Machar’s forces during the civil war spanning from 2013 to 2018, primarily against ethnic Dinka troops loyal to President Kiir.
During this civil war, approximately 400,000 individuals lost their lives, and about 2.5 million were displaced following South Sudan’s independence from Sudan. Although a peace agreement was reached in 2018 that halted widespread conflict, localized violence persists, exacerbated by the ongoing civil war in Sudan that has improved armed groups’ access to weaponry. Stephen Par Kuol, known for his role in the 2018 negotiations, served as the Peacebuilding Minister.
In a recent statement, church leaders condemned the “escalating insecurity, political tensions, and violence that threaten the peace,” urging for dialogue among the conflicting factions. Senior analyst Daniel Akech Thiong of the International Crisis Group remarked that the arrests represent a serious escalation that may prompt armed groups related to the opposition to retaliate against government bases in Upper Nile and Jonglei states.
Furthermore, the government has postponed the long-awaited national elections until December 2026, stating that additional time is required to prepare adequately for the polls.
In summary, the recent arrests carried out by the National Security Service, including that of Honourable Stephen Par Kuol, have raised significant concerns about escalating violence and political instability in South Sudan. Despite a peace deal aimed at quelling conflict, tensions remain high, with fears that these actions could provoke further retaliatory attacks by armed groups. The call for dialogue from church leaders underscores the urgent need for effective resolution to ensure lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za
