Kenyan President William Ruto has urged South Sudan leaders to engage in dialogue amidst rising tensions that threaten a crucial peace agreement. Clashes in Upper Nile State have escalated tensions in Juba, leading to the arrest of several SPLM/A-IO officials. Ruto emphasizes the need for regional consultations to address these issues and promote stability in South Sudan.
On March 7, 2025, Kenyan President William Ruto urged South Sudanese leaders to pursue dialogue to address the escalating security situation in their country. This unrest poses a significant threat to the fragile peace agreement established to resolve a previous five-year civil war. Ruto emphasized the urgency for calm during his discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, highlighting the necessity of regional collaboration for stabilization.
Ruto, who presides over the East African Community, made his plea following skirmishes in Upper Nile State that reignited tensions. These clashes involved the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and a civilian armed group known as the White Army. The violence has intensified in Juba, resulting in the detention of senior officials from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO), led by Machar, as unrest grew in the strategic town of Nasir.
Recent reports indicate that at least 20 individuals have been killed and numerous others injured in and around Nasir, a town now largely abandoned due to violence. Spokesperson for Machar, Puok Both Baluang, mentioned that two ministers and prominent military figures associated with Machar were arrested, while other senior officials faced house arrest following accusations by the government.
Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Lueth, confirmed the arrests, asserting they were justified due to conflicts about governance. He accused the SPLM/A-IO of aggression against government positions. Machar has publicly condemned the recent removal of his allies, warning this action jeopardizes the 2018 peace agreement designed to mitigate civil strife and facilitate the formation of a unified national army.
In summary, the call for dialogue by President Ruto highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among South Sudanese leaders to mitigate current tensions and uphold the essential peace agreement. With violent clashes ongoing and significant governmental arrests occurring, the stability of South Sudan hinges on constructive dialogue and adherence to existing agreements. The broader East African regional framework remains crucial in stabilizing the nation’s future amidst ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
