Professor Jok Madut Jok warns that the 2018 peace deal in South Sudan is at risk of collapse, leading to potential return to civil war. He highlights escalating tensions between key political figures and increasing communal violence linked to political power struggles. Jok also criticizes the government’s focus on foreign troops while neglecting its own soldiers and calls for accountability among South Sudanese leaders, emphasizing that crucial choices must be made to ensure lasting peace.
Professor Jok Madut Jok, a distinguished political analyst and anthropology professor at Syracuse University, has issued a stark warning regarding the precarious state of South Sudan. He emphasizes that the nation is nearing the brink of renewed civil war as the peace agreement formed in 2018 shows signs of disintegration. In a recent interview, he highlighted escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, indicating that the latter’s opposition party, the SPLM/A-IO, faces a crucial decision regarding continued political engagement or armed resistance.
Prof. Jok expressed concern, stating, “The peace agreement is collapsing. The SPLA-IO must decide whether to swallow their pride or go back to the bush to fight. This is a detrimental decision for the country.” He elaborated on Dr. Machar’s tenuous position, describing him as being effectively under house arrest while struggling with a fractured leadership. Prof. Jok remarked on the exclusive control the ruling SPLM-IG has asserted over government roles, noting critical instances such as the seizure of the Jonglei governorship.
The analyst also reflected on the dire trajectory of the peace agreement, positing that without immediate changes, the opposition may have no choice but to choose between obedience and insurrection. He warned, “The SPLM-IG will consolidate power, exclude others, and the agreement will no longer hold.” Prof. Jok further raised alarms about increasing lethal communal violence linked to political conflicts in Juba, indicating a troubling rise in tensions among various ethnic groups.
Additionally, Professor Jok lamented the economic and humanitarian crises plaguing South Sudan, characterized by failed harvests and economic disruptions exacerbated by the regional conflict in Sudan. He cautioned that a return to full-scale war would be catastrophic, claiming that political leaders remain primarily focused on maintaining power, neglecting the needs of their constituents.
Furthermore, the analyst criticized the South Sudanese government for paying foreign troops while neglecting its own soldiers, inciting discontent within the military. He asserted, “Neglecting the national army in favor of foreign troops undermines the country’s unity and sovereignty.”
Prof. Jok called for unity among South Sudanese people, stressing the necessity of holding leaders accountable to prevent the erosion of human rights and democratic governance. He noted that the international community might withdraw support if the government adopts a more authoritarian approach, remarking, “If the SPLM-IG becomes dictatorial, the public will be too fearful to protest.” This sentiment underscores the urgency of establishing transitional leadership and prioritizing national survival ahead of elections.
In conclusion, Professor Jok underlined the precarious position of South Sudan, with critical decisions ahead that will shape the nation’s future. He asserted, “South Sudan is at a crossroads. The choices made in the coming weeks and months will determine whether the country descends into further chaos or finds a path to lasting peace.”
In summary, Professor Jok Madut Jok has raised alarm regarding the collapsing peace agreement in South Sudan, citing leadership tensions and escalating communal conflicts. He underscores the dire humanitarian and economic crises, calls for accountability among South Sudanese leaders, and warns of the potential consequences of continued power struggles. His insights indicate that transformative choices must be made soon to avert further chaos and strive towards peace.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
