Kenya Urges South Sudan Leaders to Embrace Dialogue for Peace
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for dialogue among South Sudan leaders to restore peace following recent violent clashes that threaten the existing peace agreement. Tensions in the region have heightened, prompting arrests of senior officials and unrest in strategic locales like Nasir. The persistent challenges surrounding the 2018 peace deal highlight the urgency of addressing these conflicts.
Kenyan President William Ruto has urged calm in South Sudan amid escalating security issues that threaten the recent peace agreement, which concluded a five-year civil war. During discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, he emphasized the necessity for dialogue between the leaders to promote peace in the nation while regional efforts are ongoing to stabilize South Sudan.
President Ruto, in his capacity as Chairman of the East African Community, noted that “regional consultations are underway to determine the best path forward for the situation in South Sudan.” His appeal came in the wake of clashes in Upper Nile State involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the militia known as the White Army, which reignited tensions in the region.
The conflict in Nasir, a strategically important town, has heightened tensions in Juba, resulting in the detention of senior officials from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO), led by Machar. Reports indicate over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries as fighting continues in areas once populated, particularly on the South Sudan-Ethiopia border.
Puok Both Baluang, spokesperson for Machar, confirmed the recent arrests of two ministers and significant military officials associated with him. Additionally, Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services Michael Makuei Lueth announced these detainees faced legal conflicts. He accused the SPLM/A-IO of aggression against government positions in Nasir.
Machar has expressed concerns regarding the removal of his allies from government roles, highlighting that this undermines the 2018 peace agreement aimed at concluding years of civil strife. The agreement has experienced persistent challenges and delays, particularly concerning the unification of military factions into a cohesive national army.
In conclusion, President William Ruto’s appeal for dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders underscores the critical need for stability in the region. The recent clashes have exacerbated tensions, resulting in significant casualties and arrests. The ongoing challenges faced by the 2018 peace agreement further complicate the situation, making regional cooperation essential for lasting peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.thestatesman.com