South Sudan’s political tensions escalate with the detention of Minister Stephen Par Kuol and other allies of Riek Machar. Increased arrests follow violent clashes in Upper Nile State involving the White Army militia. Analysts warn of potential retaliation from opposition factions, as church leaders urge for sustained dialogue to ensure peace.
Tensions escalate in South Sudan as authorities detain additional allies of First Vice-President Riek Machar, marking a significant increase in the ongoing conflict. On Thursday, Minister of Peacebuilding Stephen Par Kuol was apprehended by the National Security Service (NSS), as confirmed by Machar’s spokesperson. Earlier arrests included the petroleum minister, military generals, and other officials aligned with Machar, intensifying worries of renewed civil strife as warned by church leaders.
The arrests occurred amidst fierce clashes in Upper Nile State, where government forces engaged the White Army militia, predominantly composed of Machar’s ethnic group, the Nuer. The government’s response has been to accused Machar’s supporters of collaborating with the White Army in assaults on military installations. During the preceding civil conflict from 2013 to 2018, these factions fought intensely against Kiir’s Dinka-led troops, resulting in extensive casualties and displacement.
Although a peace agreement was established in 2018, preventing large-scale fighting, sporadic violence persists due to escalating political rivalries and the growing influence of armed factions. Minister Kuol, a key figure in the peace negotiations, represented a hopeful yet fragile political landscape. Religious leaders have voiced concerns about the rising violence, urging for constructive dialogue to preserve peace in the region.
Daniel Akech Thiong from the International Crisis Group expressed that continued arrests signify a dangerous escalation, potentially inciting retaliatory actions from opposition-linked armed groups. Furthermore, the South Sudanese government recently postponed national elections until December 2026, citing necessary preparations before the democratic process can appropriately commence.
The recent series of arrests in South Sudan indicates a perilous escalation in political tensions, raising fears of renewed conflict. With key figures detained, including Minister Kuol, the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement faces substantial threats. Calls for dialogue from church leaders and analysts emphasize the urgency of addressing the deepening crisis to prevent further violence and instability in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
