South Sudan is witnessing increased violence, driven by tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, amid the destabilizing effects of the Sudan conflict. The fragile peace since the 2018 agreement is at risk due to internal divisions, economic crises, and extensive corruption. The situation could lead to widespread conflict, jeopardizing the nation’s stability and safety.
South Sudan is experiencing a significant surge in violence as the conflict in neighboring Sudan impacts its Upper Nile state. The tenuous peace established by the 2018 agreement is increasingly at risk due to rising internal divisions and rampant corruption.
Renewed tensions primarily stem from the escalating rivalry between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. In recent developments, several allies of Machar have been arrested in the capital city, Juba, following clashes in the Upper Nile region. The National Security Service of South Sudan confirmed, “We have arrested and detained several individuals suspected of verified links to the escalating military confrontation.”
Since mid-February, fierce fighting has erupted in Upper Nile, pitting the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), supported by militias, against the youth-led armed group known as the “White Army,” which is affiliated with Machar. A tragic incident occurred when a U.N. helicopter, tasked with rescuing SSPDF soldiers, came under attack, resulting in the deaths of a general and 27 soldiers, and further displacing thousands of civilians.
The 2018 peace accord that originally halted the civil war between Kiir and Machar faces renewed threats five years later, particularly due to the civil war in Sudan that began in April 2023. This regional instability has profound implications for South Sudan, especially its economy, which has suffered significantly; the International Crisis Group noted, “South Sudan, heavily reliant on oil revenue, lost two-thirds of its income after an explosion near Khartoum damaged the main pipeline used for exports,” leaving the government financially crippled.
South Sudan remains vulnerable, with rampant corruption and heavy reliance on oil amidst widespread poverty. Increased tensions in the north could precipitate “widespread violence,” as several organizations like Human Rights Watch have warned. A recent U.N. report criticized the nation’s political and military leaders for “fueling violence and instability.” Yasmin Sooka, chair of the commission, stated, “The leadership continues its violent power struggles across the country and is failing the people of South Sudan.” As dissatisfaction with the leadership grows and governmental support diminishes, the risk of state collapse looms. Should this occur, South Sudan could devolve into a sanctuary for militias and illicit operations, according to the International Crisis Group.
In summary, South Sudan faces escalating violence due to internal political tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, exacerbated by the spillover effects of the Sudan conflict. The fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement is at risk as economic difficulties deepen and frustrations grow among the populace. The potential for widespread conflict remains high, posing grave threats to the nation’s stability and security.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
