IGAD is alarmed by the rising tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County, following high-profile arrests linked to First Vice President Riek Machar. The organization has urged restraint and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue to maintain peace and stability in the region. A high-level delegation will be dispatched to assess the situation and facilitate discussions to prevent further escalation.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed significant concern over rising tensions and armed confrontations in Nasir County, South Sudan. Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu has emphasized the need for all parties to demonstrate restraint and adhere to their commitments under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). This escalating instability is largely attributed to the recent arrests of several key political figures, notably Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief General Gabriel Duop Lam, who are affiliated with First Vice President Riek Machar.
IGAD warns that the current political instability in South Sudan poses a serious threat to the achievements of the 2018 peace agreement. Dr. Workneh further encourages a commitment to dialogue and reconciliation among the conflicting parties. To address the deteriorating situation in Nasir County, IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to evaluate the crisis and engage with the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) regarding strategies to restore peace.
As tensions rise following the arrests, which were preceded by an armed attack linked to Machar’s faction, local authorities have begun to escalate military presence, including the encirclement of Machar’s residence in Juba. No official explanation has yet been offered for the arrests. Machar has cautioned that these dismissals of his allies could jeopardize the hard-won peace agreement that concluded a civil war resulting in significant loss of life, with estimates of 400,000 casualties.
In summary, IGAD has highlighted the critical situation in South Sudan following increased tensions due to recent political arrests. The calls for restraint and dialogue reflect the urgent need to maintain the peace process outlined in the R-ARCSS. As IGAD prepares to send a high-level delegation, the focus remains on de-escalation and safeguarding the stability of the region, thereby protecting civilian lives and preserving the achievements of the peace agreement from 2018.
Original Source: ghettoradio.co.ke
