President William Ruto has urged South Sudan’s leaders, Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, to engage in dialogue to foster peace amid rising tensions in the country. Following incidents surrounding Machar’s residence and the detention of allies during military clashes, Ruto emphasized the necessity of cooperation for stabilizing the region. The ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to sustain the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement.
President William Ruto of Kenya has called upon South Sudan President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at promoting peace. During a recent conversation, he urged both leaders to set aside their differences while the region collaboratively seeks to stabilize South Sudan as part of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Strategic Framework.
This appeal follows escalating tensions within South Sudan, where Vice President Machar’s residence was recently surrounded by soldiers and several of his associates were detained after an armed group seized a military base in the north. These incidents have raised significant concerns regarding the peace agreement established in 2018.
President Ruto emphasized that diplomatic efforts are actively underway to find a sustainable resolution to the ongoing crisis. He verified that regional consultations are being conducted to ascertain the most effective approach moving forward in South Sudan.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with internal conflicts. A political disagreement between President Kiir and his then-deputy, Machar, escalated into civil war in December 2013, resulting in approximately 400,000 lives lost and millions displaced. Although a peace agreement was secured in 2018 reinstating Machar as Vice President in a unity government formed in 2020, its implementation has faced numerous challenges, including delays in integrating armed forces and establishing local governance.
Recent developments, such as the detention of Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and several senior military officials allied with Machar, have further strained the fragile peace. These arrests transpired amidst serious confrontations in the northern town of Nasir between national forces and the White Army militia, associated with Machar’s Nuer ethnic group.
Additionally, a Cabinet reshuffle executed by President Kiir, which included the dismissal of crucial officials, has stirred apprehension regarding the stability of the peace agreement. Machar has requested the reinstatement of these officials, asserting that their removal contravenes the power-sharing accord and threatens its viability.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s call for dialogue between South Sudan’s leaders underscores the urgency of fostering peace in a region currently facing significant unrest. Both leaders must navigate their contentious history while recognizing the importance of collaboration to maintain the fragile peace established in 2018. Continuous diplomatic efforts and regional consultations will play a critical role in addressing the challenges that threaten these agreements and the stability of South Sudan.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
