IGAD has demanded the release of detained officials allied with Riek Machar, warning that their imprisonment could undermine South Sudan’s peace accord. The call follows recent violent clashes and highlights ongoing challenges in implementing the 2018 peace agreement. IGAD seeks to promote dialogue and initiate further discussions to stabilize the region, while also launching investigations into the recent violence.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for the immediate release of officials affiliated with Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First Vice President. The organization expressed concerns that the detention of these officials could jeopardize the fragile peace agreement in South Sudan, particularly following violent clashes in Upper Nile State.
During an emergency virtual summit led by Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh, IGAD urged President Salva Kiir to release the detainees unless there is transparent and credible evidence warranting their continued detention. Although the specific individuals arrested were not disclosed, it was noted that their arrests have disrupted the security mechanisms established under the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, which concluded the civil war between Kiir and Machar’s factions.
The clashes on March 7–8 in Nasir County resulted in fatalities, including a South Sudanese army commander and a UN staff member. Following these events, Kiir’s administration apprehended several allies of Machar, such as Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, and senior military officials.
IGAD condemned the violence and instructed its ceasefire monitoring mechanism to investigate the clashes and an attack on a UN helicopter. A ministerial team is also planned to visit Juba to evaluate stalled peace talks and advocate for inclusive dialogue.
Despite facing numerous challenges since its inception, including delayed elections and unmet security reforms, the 2018 peace agreement has highlighted the necessity for ongoing constructive dialogue.
IGAD praised the joint appeal for calm by Kiir and Machar following the Nasir violence but voiced serious concerns regarding ceasefire violations. It emphasized the urgency for the unification of armed forces and the drafting of a permanent constitution. Regional mediation initiatives, including Kenya’s Tumaini Initiative, were also underscored to foster engagement with non-signatory groups.
The summit included attendance by Ugandan officials as observers, with support from the UN and African Union to realign international backing. IGAD stressed that the stability of South Sudan depends on implementing overdue reforms and reaffirmed that dialogue remains the sole viable approach for resolving disputes.
While consequences for non-compliance were not explicitly mentioned, IGAD expressed intentions for sustained high-level engagement to prevent a return to conflict. South Sudanese observer Edmund Yakani described the summit’s outcomes as “encouraging,” emphasizing the leaders’ need for swift action on stalled peace commitments. He noted a significant trust deficit among the leadership as a barrier to achieving essential reforms, allowing “peace spoilers” to hinder stability efforts.
In conclusion, IGAD has taken a crucial stance on the detention of officials allied with Riek Machar, emphasizing the detrimental impact such actions could have on peace in South Sudan. The organization’s call for release, alongside its monitoring of ceasefire violations and dialogue initiatives, reflects its commitment to stabilizing the region. Continued high-level engagement and adherence to peace commitments from both Kiir and Machar are essential for fostering lasting peace.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
