South Sudan’s Detention of Officials Raises Concerns Over Peace Stability
South Sudan has detained petroleum minister Puot Kang Chol and several military officials linked to First Vice President Riek Machar, threatening the peace deal that ended the civil war. These arrests coincide with recent violent clashes in Nasir. Experts warn that South Sudan may descend into renewed conflict unless the top leadership intervenes.
In a significant development, South Sudanese authorities have detained the petroleum minister and several high-ranking military officials associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. This action raises concerns regarding the stability of the peace agreement that concluded the civil conflict. These arrests coincide with recent violent clashes in Nasir between the national forces and the White Army militia, which primarily consists of armed individuals from Machar’s ethnic group, the Nuer.
Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, a native of Nasir, and deputy army chief Gabriel Doup Lam have been arrested, while other senior military officials allied with Machar have been placed under house arrest. Machar’s spokesperson, Puok Both Baluang, stated that no explanations have been provided for the detentions. Despite the heightened military presence around Machar’s residence, he was able to visit his office.
Information Minister Michael Makuei has not responded to inquiries regarding the situation, although he has announced plans for a news conference. South Sudan has endured a devastating civil war since shortly after its independence, leading to approximately 400,000 deaths and displacing 2.5 million individuals. Although the 2018 peace agreement has largely mitigated large-scale fighting, localized violence has persisted.
Recent warnings from the African Union and the United Nations peacekeeping mission highlight the urgent need for de-escalation in Upper Nile State. Ter Manyang, who leads the Juba-based Center for Peace and Advocacy, expressed concerns that the arrests could lead the nation into further conflict. He stated, “The country is likely to slide to war unless the situation is managed by the top leadership of the country.”
The arrest of South Sudan’s petroleum minister and military officials linked to First Vice President Riek Machar raises serious concerns about the continued stability of the peace deal that has helped to reduce large-scale violence since 2018. With ongoing tensions in Nasir and warnings from international organizations, the situation could deteriorate further if not addressed by the nation’s leadership. The potential for renewed conflict underscores the fragile nature of peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
