South Sudan has witnessed the arrest of Minister Stephen Par Kuol, the latest official linked to First Vice President Riek Machar detained. This follows the recent arrests of the oil minister and deputy army chief, raising alarms over the country’s fragile peace agreement. The escalating violence in Upper Nile State further complicates the situation, attracting calls for dialogue from international leaders.
JUBA: On Thursday, South Sudan’s peacebuilding minister, Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, was detained, marking the third arrest of officials affiliated with First Vice President Riek Machar. This incident was confirmed by Machar’s press secretary, Puok Both Baluang, via social media, highlighting concern over the stability of the current government.
Kuol’s arrest succeeded that of the oil minister and the deputy head of the army, who are also prominent members of Machar’s faction within the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO). These detentions, occurring within just two days, amplify fears of jeopardizing the delicate peace agreement established between President Salva Kiir and Machar after years of civil strife.
The ongoing violence, particularly in the Upper Nile State, poses a significant threat to the unity government. Reports indicate ongoing clashes between the government forces and Machar’s rebels, raising grave concerns that the power-sharing arrangement might collapse.
The United Nations has expressed alarm regarding the intensifying hostilities in Upper Nile State, citing the use of heavy weaponry and resulting casualties. In a coordinated plea, regional entities and Western diplomatic missions have called for a cessation of hostilities in the area, urging leaders in Juba to prioritize peace and dialogue.
Many analysts point out that recent political actions by President Kiir, including the dismissal of two vice presidents and the removal of a governor associated with Machar’s movement, signal efforts to consolidate power at the expense of Machar’s position and influence in the government. These developments raise serious questions about the future of governance in South Sudan.
The recent arrests of key political figures in South Sudan, particularly those aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar, have brought significant instability to the region. The response from international and regional bodies highlights the urgent need for peaceful dialogue. Without substantial efforts to ensure unity and adherence to the peace agreement, South Sudan risks reverting to deeper conflict, undermining the sacrifices made to attain stability after years of civil war.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
