South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Dismisses Ambassador Amid Political Turmoil
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has fired Ambassador Monica Achol Abel, amid rising political tensions. This dismissal follows a deterioration in relations between Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, with armed forces surrounding Machar’s residence. Recent detentions of key ministers signal intensifying internal power struggles, leading to uncertainty regarding South Sudan’s fragile peace process.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed Monica Achol Abel as ambassador to Kenya, just four months after she assumed her duties. This decision, reported by a government source and aired on state television, lacks official explanation but reflects Kiir’s tendency for abrupt personnel changes, commonly occurring at night. This move coincides with escalating political unrest in South Sudan.
The political landscape in South Sudan is increasingly tumultuous, particularly between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Armed forces have encircled Machar’s residence, raising concerns about potential instability within the fragile coalition government. Abel’s removal appears to align with a broader crackdown on political figures, marked by intensified actions from the National Security Service (NSS).
In recent developments, NSS agents also detained Stephen Par Kuol, the Minister of Peacebuilding, and apprehended Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol, suggesting a growing internal power struggle within the ruling body. As these tensions escalate, doubts linger regarding the viability of South Sudan’s delicate peace process, which has historically struggled despite numerous agreements.
President William Ruto of Kenya, who facilitates the Tumaini Initiative peace process, noted the escalating situation during discussions with both Kiir and Machar. Ruto urged the leaders to pursue dialogue for national peace, emphasizing that regional consultations are underway to chart a constructive path forward amidst the crisis.
South Sudan’s history is marred by conflict that began during a civil war in December 2013, stemming from political discord within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). This violence has caused extensive suffering and displacement, and numerous peace agreements have failed to ensure stability. While the 2018 Revitalised Agreement aimed to establish a unity government, its slow implementation and persistent violence signal ongoing challenges for peace in South Sudan.
The recent dismissal of Ambassador Monica Achol Abel by President Salva Kiir, amidst growing political turmoil, underscores the precariousness of South Sudan’s political climate. The escalating tensions between Kiir and Machar, compounded by a crackdown on government figures, raise significant concerns about the future of peace efforts. With a history of unresolved conflict and frequent disruptions of diplomatic relationships, the stability of South Sudan remains precariously in balance.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
