The political situation in South Sudan’s capital Juba is tense following recent arrests of opposition leaders and military generals linked to Riek Machar. This unrest, exacerbated by clashes in Nasir County, raises concerns of renewed conflict. A tribunal led by President Kiir aims to address escalating security issues, although fears persist regarding military deployments and local resilience amid ongoing instability shaped by external influences.
The political climate in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, is increasingly tense due to the recent arrests of opposition politicians and army generals associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. Concerns regarding instability have particularly escalated in Nasir County where unrest has surged following clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army, an allied militant group of Machar’s ethnic community. The ongoing conflict has a historical backdrop, with the White Army having supported Machar during the civil war from 2013 to 2018 against the predominantly Dinka forces loyal to President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
The recent arrests occurred after a significant presidential meeting aimed at addressing the escalating security issues in several states, including Nasir and Western Bahr el Ghazal. This meeting, chaired by President Salva Kiir on March 3, showcased leadership figures, including Vice President Machar and various political party leaders, who pledged to facilitate peace and security. The leaders affirmatively noted that SSPDF troops would move to Nasir without disruption, which is intended to replace older battalions already stationed there.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth emphasized a commitment to national unity during a press briefing following the meeting. He called for local community involvement along troop movement routes, urging residents to assist in safely escorting the forces to Nasir County. Additionally, Puot Kang, a key member of Machar’s party, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of cooperative measures to uphold peace.
Civil society representatives highlighted the meeting’s constructive atmosphere and its intent to raise awareness regarding the significance of peace. In light of ongoing tensions, there were escalated concerns regarding propaganda boosting regional instability. The emergence of the White Army’s assaults on Nasir has notably increased fears of renewed violent confrontation, particularly as additional government forces are deployed.
Following the arrests of prominent SPLM-IO figures, including notable generals and the Minister of Petroleum, tensions have mounted within the political realm. Analysts warn that any resurgence in conflict between Kiir’s and Machar’s factions could jeopardize ongoing peace initiatives and the upcoming elections in December 2026. Meanwhile, the government has intensified crackdowns on pro-Machar leaders, leading many to either flee or remain hidden in fear of arrest.
The SPLM-IO critically denounced the detentions, particularly that of Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, citing violations of previously established peace agreements. They declared the actions of the government as illegal and detrimental to the peace process. Concerns have been raised over increased military presence near Machar’s residence which threatens trust and hinders violence de-escalation efforts.
As South Sudan navigates through tensions, analysts have noted that the renewed warfare threat is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has bolstered arms access and risks destabilizing the fragile peace established in 2018. The disruption of oil exports, crucial for South Sudan’s economy, further complicates the scenario. Major scholars argue that the stability of the nation is precariously hanging by a thread as these developments unfold.
The recent political turmoil in South Sudan, marked by tensions in Juba and Nasir County, highlights growing instability following the arrests of opposition leaders and military officers. Continued calls for dialogue and cooperation among political factions indicate a desire for peace, yet the threat of renewed conflict looms due to heightened military actions and regional instability linked to neighboring Sudan. The situation remains delicate, with potential consequences for national governance and peace efforts as South Sudan approaches its future elections.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
