Kenya’s Call for Dialogue to Resolve South Sudan Clashes

Kenyan President William Ruto has called for dialogue between South Sudan’s leaders to address rising security tensions threatening the 2018 peace agreement. Following clashes in Upper Nile State and the detention of officials linked to First Vice President Riek Machar, Ruto emphasized the need for calm and regional consultations to navigate the crisis effectively.

On March 7, 2025, Kenyan President William Ruto urged leaders of South Sudan to engage in dialogue to maintain peace amid escalating security tensions. These conflicts continue to threaten the 2018 peace agreement that ended a prolonged civil war in the nation. During his discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, he emphasized the necessity of calm as regional consultations commence to facilitate a viable resolution to the ongoing crisis.

The clashes in Upper Nile State, which began mid-February between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the White Army, have resulted in significant violence. Recent unrest in Nasir, a strategically important town, has heightened tensions in Juba, leading to the detention of senior military and government officials associated with Machar’s faction, the SPLM/A-IO. Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have died and many others have sustained injuries due to ongoing conflicts.

In light of these developments, Machar’s spokesperson noted that several of his allies, including ministers, were arrested this week, prompting condemnation from Machar himself. He argues that these arrests undermine the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement. The political rivalry has previously led to extensive civil unrest, making the current call for dialogue by President Ruto even more critical for restoring stability in South Sudan.

The urgent appeal by Kenyan President William Ruto underscores the necessity for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to avert further violence and preserve the 2018 peace agreement. The ongoing clashes in Upper Nile State and the associated political ramifications highlight the fragility of peace in the region. Stability in South Sudan is essential, and cooperative efforts are paramount to overcoming existing challenges and fostering a unified national army.

Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com