South Sudan’s government has accused Vice President Riek Machar of conspiracy, leading to increasing tensions within the country. The SPLM-IO demands Machar’s release, while government officials insist the 2018 peace deal remains intact. Both sides are urged to engage in dialogue to ensure stability and prevent conflict.
In South Sudan, the government has accused Vice President Riek Machar of conspiracy amid escalating tensions. The opposition party, Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), has called for his immediate release. Notably, both parties appear reluctant to dismantle the fragile peace deal established in 2018, despite the growing unrest.
Following Machar’s arrest by President Salva Kiir on accusations of engaging with opposition factions, government officials reported that there is currently no impending risk of renewed conflict. South Sudanese Information Minister Michael Makuei asserted during a press conference that, “the peace agreement is still in place and will be implemented.”
Stephen Par Kuol, South Sudan’s peace minister, urged signatories of the Revitalized Peace Agreement to comply with existing ceasefire protocols as a pathway to sustainable peace. He emphasized the importance of maintaining calm within the populace while reaffirming commitment to the peace process.
Conversely, the SPLM-IO’s official spokesperson warned that Machar’s arrest could precipitate further civil discord, indicating that the country is at risk of falling back into conflict. Despite the heated exchange, the SPLM-IO has moderated its tone while continuing to demand the release of Machar and other detained officials.
The opposition has also sought assistance from the African Union and the United Nations to facilitate discussions aimed at defusing the crisis. Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced severe unrest, exemplified by the civil war between 2013 and 2018 that claimed approximately 400,000 lives and led to the controversial peace agreement between Kiir and Machar, which has faced implementation challenges.
In summary, South Sudan currently stands at a critical juncture, with governmental tensions persisting following Vice President Riek Machar’s arrest. Although both sides express a desire to uphold the 2018 peace agreement, the situation remains volatile. The proposed calls for dialogue and adherence to ceasefire agreements offer a potential path toward sustainable peace, yet the effective resolution of these issues is crucial to avoid a return to conflict.
Original Source: efe.com
