Kenya Urges Dialogue Among South Sudan Leaders to Resolve Clashes
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for peaceful dialogue among South Sudanese leaders to address escalating violence that threatens a five-year-old peace agreement. Recent clashes have resulted in casualties and government arrests, underscoring ongoing tensions and challenges in unifying armed groups as outlined in the peace deal.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for peace in South Sudan amidst escalating tensions that threaten to undermine a peace agreement stemming from a previous five-year civil war. During discussions on Thursday with South Sudanese leaders, President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, he emphasized the necessity for dialogue to restore stability in the nation and mentioned ongoing regional consultations aimed at finding a solution.
These appeals from President Ruto followed recent clashes in Upper Nile State involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and civilian militia known as the White Army. The violence around the strategically significant town of Nasir has heightened tensions in the capital, Juba, resulting in the detention of senior officials associated with Machar’s SPLM/A-IO faction.
Reports indicate that more than 20 individuals lost their lives, with additional injuries reported, as the conflict has caused Nasir to become largely deserted. Additionally, Machar’s spokesperson disclosed the arrests of two ministers and military officials aligned with Machar, claiming that these actions were taken due to legal conflicts.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed the arrests, alleging that the SPLM/A-IO attacked government positions in Nasir. Machar has voiced concern over the removal of his allies, arguing that such actions jeopardize the fragile 2018 peace agreement, which aims to unify conflicting armed factions into a cohesive national army, yet has encountered numerous delays and obstacles.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious as President Ruto urges dialogue to mitigate ongoing violence that threatens the peace agreement. Clashes in Upper Nile State have intensified tensions, resulting in significant casualties and governmental arrests, complicating the peace process initially established in 2018. Continued regional engagement and dialogue appear vital for restoring stability in the country.
Original Source: www.thestatesman.com