Tensions in South Sudan are rising as the 2018 peace accord is threatened by political unrest and military conflicts, particularly between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. The assault on an SSPDF base by a militia linked to Machar indicates serious dangers. Concerns are growing among regional and international observers regarding the potential implications of renewed conflict in South Sudan.
Tensions in South Sudan are escalating as the fragile 2018 peace accord faces significant threats due to political instability and military conflicts. The growing divide between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is reigniting fears of a return to civil war. Recent events, including cabinet reshuffles and the arrest of high-ranking officials, have amplified concerns related to the country’s stability.
The crisis was exacerbated by a March 4 attack on a South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF) base in Nasir, attributed to the White Army, a Nuer militia linked to Machar. This incident arose from disputed plans to replace the SSPDF with a combined force involving local militias, marking a dangerous escalation after a five-year civil war that saw nearly 400,000 fatalities.
In an attempt to mitigate the conflict, President Kiir stated on March 7 that the nation would not return to war. Nevertheless, his assurances have failed to alleviate the growing unrest in Juba and among international observers. Solomon Dersso, the founder of Amani Africa, highlighted the escalating situation, urging immediate high-level interventions to prevent further crisis.
The African Union’s Peace and Security Council has prioritized South Sudan’s situation in its 1265th session, reflecting international concern. Additionally, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu warned that the recent clashes in Nasir signify a troubling pattern of violence that could lead to renewed warfare.
Reports of Uganda deploying special forces to Juba underscore the regional unease. While the South Sudanese government initially denied these claims, the situation illustrates wider anxieties concerning the country’s stability. The potential collapse of the peace agreement would have dire consequences, destabilizing the broader region and straining resources across neighboring countries and international organizations.
As international scrutiny intensifies, the outlook for South Sudan remains precarious, with the fragility of the peace accord posing significant risks for both the nation and the surrounding region.
In summary, South Sudan is facing a precarious moment as the 2018 peace agreement is jeopardized by escalating tensions between political leaders and military actions. The attack in Nasir and subsequent warnings from international figures underscore the urgent need for intervention to avert a return to civil war. As regional actors express heightened concern, the implications of a collapsing peace deal could destabilize not just South Sudan but the entire region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
