South Sudan’s Deputy President, Riek Machar, threatens to withdraw from the peace agreement with President Salva Kiir over the dismissal of several senior officials, including two vice presidents. He demands the reinstatement of these officials within 24 hours, claiming the actions violate the 2018 power-sharing deal. The ongoing political instability poses serious challenges to the nation’s peace process and governance.
The deputy president of South Sudan, Riek Machar, has issued a stern warning regarding his potential withdrawal from a fragile peace agreement with President Salva Kiir. This threat follows a government reshuffle that resulted in the dismissal of several high-ranking officials, including the Health Minister, Yolanda Awel Deng, and Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba, who serves as the governor of Western Equatoria. Machar’s ultimatum demands their reinstatement within 24 hours or he will abandon the 2018 accord.
Machar’s statement highlights that the recent firings breach the power-sharing agreement established in 2018, which paved the way for his return to Juba as the first vice president. He asserts that his faction will no longer accept any disregard for the peace deal. Furthermore, the reshuffling includes the dismissal of additional vice presidents and the head of the intelligence service.
The peace agreement, which emerged after five years of civil conflict, is yet to be fully realized, with several components, such as the unification of military commands and political reforms, remaining unfulfilled. Following South Sudan’s independence from Sudan in 2011, hopes for stability were dashed by ethnic violence and political strife, particularly after the conflict erupted in December 2013 between Kiir and Machar’s factions.
International observers have consistently warned that ongoing political stalemate and unmet commitments pose a serious threat to South Sudan’s stability. With repeated postponements of presidential elections now set for 2026, the unity government faces persistent challenges in executing its obligations outlined in the peace agreement.
In conclusion, the current political turmoil in South Sudan highlights the fragility of its peace agreement, as Deputy President Riek Machar threatens to withdraw in response to the firings of key officials. The existing power-sharing arrangement remains under strain due to unfulfilled reforms and ongoing tensions, casting uncertainty over the country’s future stability.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
