South Sudan Faces Growing Threat of Civil War as Peace Deal Falters

South Sudan is on the brink of renewed civil war as a peace deal faces collapse following the arrest of opposition leader Riek Machar. The governance structure is unstable and recent violent clashes further threaten peace. International entities, including the United Nations and the African Union, are seeking to intervene and prevent further escalation, while the humanitarian situation continues to worsen.

The situation in South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, is rapidly deteriorating due to fears that a peace deal, which previously ended a devastating conflict, is at risk of collapse. After gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has endured continuous internal strife, marked by civil wars in 2013 and 2016 that left tens of thousands dead. The fragile ceasefire established in 2018 is now threatened by a series of recent events.

The governing coalition, which includes President Salva Kiir and five vice presidents, has become increasingly unstable following the recent arrest of Riek Machar, Kiir’s political rival and head of the SPLM/A-IO party. Machar’s detention has prompted fears of a complete breakdown of the peace agreement, with the SPLM/A-IO stating that such actions jeopardize the country’s stability. Immediate concerns arise from escalated military conflicts exacerbated by the involvement of Ugandan troops, called by Kiir to combat local militias, raising accusations of aggression against civilians.

In South Sudan’s politically charged atmosphere, Machar’s arrest was officially linked to accusations of inciting rebellion and undermining governmental authority. The information minister suggested that Machar’s actions aimed to derail upcoming elections and reignite conflicts, a claim that the SPLM/A-IO has not publicly addressed. This political turmoil is further exacerbated by violent confrontations between government forces and the Nuer militia known as the White Army, resulting in several casualties.

International reactions have been immediate and concerning, with the United Nations warning that the nation is dangerously close to another collapse into civil war. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation, while several Western nations collectively urged President Kiir to reverse Machar’s detention and establish a ceasefire. Amidst growing tensions, the U.S. has advised citizens to evacuate South Sudan.

The African Union plans to intervene in an effort to ease tensions, dispatching a delegation to engage with South Sudan’s leadership. In light of recent assessments from the World Bank citing rampant poverty and escalating humanitarian crises, South Sudan remains precariously positioned. As it continues to host large numbers of refugees from neighboring conflicts, the UN has expressed grave concern, describing the nation as “a country on the edge,” which requires urgent attention to avoid descending into chaos.

In conclusion, South Sudan is facing a critical juncture as the fragile peace deal established in 2018 is threatened by political upheaval and military conflict. With the arrest of Riek Machar and increased tensions between ethnic groups, the nation’s stability hangs in the balance. International calls for calming the situation highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive resolution to prevent a return to civil war. The humanitarian crisis underscores the necessity for global attention and intervention efforts to stabilize the region.

Original Source: www.wral.com