The political situation in South Sudan’s Juba is tense following the arrests of opposition politicians and military leaders aligned with Riek Machar. The unrest is exacerbated by violence in Nasir County, leading to concerns over stability and potential renewed conflict. A high-level presidential meeting aimed to address growing security concerns, with appeals for peace and cooperation to prevent further escalation.
The political climate in Juba, South Sudan, is currently fraught with tension following the arrest of opposition politicians and army generals associated with First Vice President Riek Machar. These developments have sparked concerns about the potential for renewed violence within the country, particularly in regions like Nasir County where there has been significant instability.
Since mid-February, the security situation in Nasir County has deteriorated, stemming from clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army, a militant group allied with Machar’s ethnic background. The White Army was instrumental in the 2013-2018 civil war, opposing President Salva Kiir’s predominantly Dinka forces. The ongoing violence culminated in the White Army overrunning Nasir Town on March 4.
In response to these rising tensions, South Sudan’s Presidency convened a high-level meeting on March 3, led by President Salva Kiir. The discussions included significant political figures who collectively acknowledged the need for troop deployments to reinforce security in Nasir County without obstruction. This decision aims to replace longstanding military units stationed in the area with fresh forces.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth emphasized the leaders’ commitment to national unity and cooperation. Furthermore, Puot Kang, Minister of Petroleum, urged the local populace to help facilitate the passage of troops, stressing the necessity of collective efforts to uphold peace during this period of unrest. Civil society representatives deemed the discussions productive, focusing on education about the significance of peace.
The situation has escalated as rumors regarding the deployment of new forces caused anxieties within local communities. Concerns revolve around potential threats to civilians due to government actions. In Western Equatoria, unrest has increased after the dismissal of an SPLM-IO-affiliated governor, signaling a broader political crisis.
The government’s recent army command alterations have exposed local citizens to further risks, particularly following attacks on government forces by the White Army during troop replacements. The situation reached a critical point with the detention of senior Military officials from the SPLA-IO, including Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, exacerbating tensions and inciting further instability.
The government’s clampdown on pro-Machar leaders has led to widespread fear and panic among opposition groups. Notable figures, such as National Minister of Peace Building Stephen Par Kuol, were also apprehended amid these events. Analysts warn that renewed hostilities among factions could disrupt the fragile peace process and hinder upcoming elections planned for December 2026.
In a press conference, Minister Makuei asserted that the arrests were lawful, aimed at upholding security. However, the SPLM-IO condemned the detainment of Duop Lam, labeling it a violation of the peace agreement and raising alarms about heavy military presences around strategic political figures. They called for a cessation of hostilities and demanded Duop Lam’s release.
The ongoing turmoil not only threatens political stability in South Sudan but also jeopardizes the country’s oil exports, which play a critical role in its economy. The backdrop of turmoil in neighboring Sudan has exacerbated access to arms, further heightening fears that South Sudan is teetering on the brink of renewed conflict, potentially undermining the tenuous peace established since 2018.
The arrest of opposition figures and military leaders in Juba has heightened fears of renewed conflict in South Sudan. Amid ongoing violence and unrest, particularly in Nasir County, the fragile peace established since 2018 is increasingly at risk. Political leaders are urged to foster cooperation and dialogue to mitigate tensions and uphold security, as the situation’s escalation threatens both the political landscape and economic stability of the country.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
