South Sudan’s government has warned the White Army to vacate military zones, especially Nasir, or face military action. Information Minister Michael Makuei emphasized that civilians in these zones will be treated as combatants. Tensions have escalated due to clashes that resulted in casualties and UN warnings echoing past civil war patterns. Uganda’s military backing of Kiir further complicates the situation.
The government of South Sudan has issued a firm ultimatum to the White Army, a militia group linked to the Nuer ethnic community, demanding that they vacate Nasir military zones to avoid military action. The directive includes immediate evacuation from their assembly areas, stating that continued presence will be met with a response from government forces.
The White Army has purportedly claimed civilian status; however, it has faced allegations of engaging in warfare against South Sudanese Defence Forces (SSDF). Recent clashes in Nasir resulted in casualties, including the death of a UN crew member and an SSPDF general, prompting government officials to take a hard stance against the militia’s activities.
Information Minister Michael Makuei emphasized the need for the White Army to return home, warning that anyone refusing to depart military zones will be treated as combatants. The government has repudiated claims of targeting civilians, asserting that individuals who remain in these zones would be considered a threat.
The White Army, which is aligned with opposition leader Riek Machar, seized control of Nasir, a strategic town bordered by Ethiopia, on March 3, escalating tensions with government forces. Recent aerial bombardments were reported to deter the White Army from receiving air support.
United Nations representatives expressed that the current crisis in South Sudan bears alarming resemblances to the events that led to the civil war in 2015, where political strife fueled large-scale violence. The offensive by the White Army, which resulted in the capture of significant military positions, has intensified governmental crackdowns and opposition arrests.
Machar has accused his government counterparts of oppressive tactics, asserting that the peace agreement is on the verge of collapse. He remarked on his prolonged house arrest while still engaging in governmental affairs, indicating a deep-seated mistrust among political factions.
In response to the growing conflict, Uganda has officially supported President Kiir, with parliamentary approval for the deployment of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to aid in stabilizing South Sudan. Uganda’s military leadership has declared that any aggression against Kiir will be considered an act of war, further reinforcing its commitment to the current administration.
The South Sudanese government has issued a stern warning to the White Army, demanding immediate withdrawal from military zones to avoid military action. The escalating tensions surrounding the control of Nasir and other regions have drawn international attention, echoing historical conflicts. The backing of Uganda for the South Sudanese government highlights the seriousness of the situation, as political divisions threaten the fragile peace in the country.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
