South Sudan’s recent crackdown has led to the arrests of key figures, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Lieutenant General Gabriel Doup Lam, amid fears of a coup against Vice President Riek Machar’s faction. This situation follows increased violence in the Upper Nile state, raising questions about the stability of the existing political agreements in a country still recovering from civil war.
In South Sudan, a significant crackdown has led to the arrest of several prominent figures, including petroleum minister Puot Kang Chol and Lieutenant General Gabriel Doup Lam, an ally of Vice President Riek Machar. This move appears to signal intentions of a coup against a faction within the power-sharing government. The arrests were carried out by the National Security Service personnel, raising concerns regarding the stability of the existing political agreements.
The action occurred shortly after the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) detained General Duop Lam and stationed troops near Machar’s residence. A spokesperson for Machar indicated that the arrest contravenes the 2018 power-sharing agreement, warning that the stability of the agreement is jeopardized by such actions, coupled with the military’s presence at their leader’s home.
While no official explanation has been provided for the arrests, analysts believe they may be linked to recent violence in the Upper Nile state, where battles have erupted between government forces and ethnic Nuer rebels. The SSPDF has alleged that General Doup Lam conspired with these rebels, sparking tensions as fighting escalates and leading to civilian casualties, according to the United Nations.
Since the outbreak of civil war in December 2013, South Sudan has faced an ongoing humanitarian crisis, with over 400,000 deaths and millions displaced. Despite a peace agreement in 2018, the political landscape remains unstable, with postponed elections and rampant poverty. In response to the unsettling developments, President Kiir made a statement asserting that South Sudan shall not revert to war, reflecting the government’s desire to maintain peace amidst rising tensions.
The recent arrests in South Sudan of key political and military figures have raised alarm about the stability of the country’s fragile power-sharing agreement. As violence escalates and ethnic tensions simmer, the government’s commitment to preventing a return to war will be crucial in navigating this challenging political landscape. Observers are concerned that continued action against dissenting factions could jeopardize the peace established since 2018.
Original Source: www.dw.com
