The security situation in South Sudan has significantly worsened, with tensions between the SPLM and SPLM-IO escalating, threatening a relapse into civil war. Recent violence has resulted in civilian casualties and displacements. The UN is working with regional partners to maintain peace, while humanitarian needs among the population are critical, exacerbated by economic challenges.
The security situation in South Sudan has considerably worsened, primarily due to escalating tensions between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and its rival, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). This intensifying conflict raises the risk of another civil war in this fragile nation.
On March 4th, a youth militia known as the White Army seized control of military barracks previously held by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). In response, civilian areas in the Upper Nile region faced aerial bombardments, resulting in numerous casualties, severe injuries, and the displacement of around 100,000 individuals.
The situation is further exacerbated by reports of new mobilizations by both the White Army and SSPDF, including the disturbing alleged recruitment of children to their ranks. On March 24, violent clashes broke out in the capital, Juba, raising fears that hostilities could spread widely, reminiscent of the civil wars in 2013 and 2016, threatening the country’s 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
On the political side, numerous SPLM-IO officials have faced detainment or have gone into hiding, with First Vice President Riek Machar reportedly placed under house arrest on March 26. Nicholas Haysom, the head of the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), cautioned that the country teeters on the brink of a renewed civil war.
The UN is actively working with international partners to avert this conflict, while agencies such as the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) are collaborating with South Sudanese organizations to preserve the progress achieved since the signing of the peace agreement. However, these diplomatic efforts hinge on the willingness of the conflicting parties to pursue peace.
UN Secretary General emphasized the urgent need for South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize peace, stating, “Put down the weapons. Put all the people of South Sudan first.” This clarion call comes amidst a backdrop of overwhelming humanitarian need, as over nine million individuals require assistance and the country grapples with a looming economic breakdown due to plummeting oil revenues and rampant inflation.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced considerable challenges, including a civil war that erupted shortly thereafter, leading to suffering marked by ethnic violence and humanitarian crises. Although the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement provided a glimmer of hope, its implementation remains stalled, heightening the potential for another outbreak of war amidst a dire humanitarian landscape affecting approximately 75% of the population.
In summary, South Sudan is on the verge of facing another civil war due to increasing tensions between major political factions. The humanitarian crisis intensifies as millions seek assistance amidst rampant inflation and economic instability. Efforts by UNMISS and international stakeholders are crucial in preventing further deterioration, yet success relies heavily on the willingness of South Sudan’s leadership to commit to peace and the well-being of their citizens.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org
