Examining South Sudan’s Escalating Crisis Amid Official Denials
South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Lueth, downplayed concerns regarding instability, but independent reports contradict his claims, highlighting a deteriorating security situation, militia activity, and high tensions between political leaders. The U.N. reports ongoing violence, foreign military involvement, and a U.S. travel advisory warning of danger, all indicating a critical crisis in South Sudan.
Michael Makuei Lueth, the South Sudanese Minister of Information, has attempted to downplay concerns regarding the nation’s stability by attributing fears to rumors and social media. However, this claim is contradicted by numerous on-ground events and assessments that depict a more troubling reality.
The United Nations has reported a substantial deterioration in the situation within South Sudan, emphasizing the rising tensions stemming from internal conflict. The discord primarily involves forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with Vice President Riek Machar. Moreover, the U.N. has underscored the fragility of the 2018 peace agreement that concluded the civil war, documenting ongoing fighting in areas such as Upper Nile and Nasir.
On March 7, a U.N. helicopter, engaged in the evacuation of South Sudanese troops, was attacked, resulting in the fatalities of both U.N. personnel and South Sudanese soldiers, including a senior general. This incident further illustrates the pervasive violence and hazardous conditions for personnel operating within South Sudan.
In response to the escalating unrest, the Ugandan military has deployed special forces to assist the South Sudanese government in securing Juba. The presence of foreign troops signifies a critical situation, whereby external intervention is deemed necessary due to prevailing instability.
The situation has also seen the militant group known as the “White Army,” associated with Vice President Machar, capture an army base in Nasir on March 4. This development led to casualties among soldiers and highlights a broader trend of militia activity across the nation, raising fears of a resurgence of civil war. Additionally, tensions between Kiir and Machar intensify, exemplified by recent arrests of generals associated with Machar’s faction.
On a related note, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for South Sudan, indicating a high risk to life. This advisory discourages Americans from traveling to South Sudan, citing ongoing armed conflict and mandating nonessential personnel to evacuate from the country.
The International Crisis Group (ICG), based in Brussels, has expressed grave concerns, stating, “Tensions are running dangerously high in South Sudan.” The ICG warns of the potential for renewed civil war, particularly as militias such as the White Army gain control over critical regions like Nasir. Additionally, there are apprehensions that conflict in Upper Nile could extend to neighboring regions, including Sudan.
Michael Makuei Lueth’s assertion of calm in South Sudan stands in stark contrast to independent reports highlighting an escalating crisis. The deterioration of security, marked by violence and political instability, suggests an imminent threat of renewed civil war. The involvement of foreign military forces and the issuance of travel advisories further emphasize the seriousness of the situation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
