South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has removed Upper Nile state governor James Odhok Oyay amid escalating clashes with an ethnic militia allied to his rival, Riek Machar. This has sparked opposition anger and fears of a return to civil conflict, which had previously ravaged the nation. The UN reported that fighting has displaced roughly 50,000 people since late February, raising concerns of a relapse into war.
President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has dismissed the governor of Upper Nile state, James Odhok Oyay, following increased clashes between government forces and an ethnic militia. This militia is accused of forming an alliance with Kiir’s political rival, First Vice President Riek Machar. The violence is centered around the town of Nasir, leading to concerns that South Sudan may again face a return to conflict, nearly seven years post-civil war.
In a statement broadcast on state television, President Kiir appointed Lieutenant General James Koang Chuol as Oyay’s replacement. The dismissal of Governor Oyay, who is affiliated with Machar’s SPLM-IO party, has incited discontent within the opposition group, which has partially withdrawn from the 2018 peace agreement in objection to recent arrests of its officials.
Puok Both Baluang, a spokesperson for Machar, denounced Oyay’s removal, claiming it violates the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Conversely, Information Minister Michael Makuei argued that Oyay’s sacking was essential for restoring peace in Upper Nile state. The government has accused SPLM-IO of maintaining connections with the White Army militia, a group comprised mainly of Nuer youths.
According to the United Nations, the fighting in the region has displaced approximately 50,000 individuals since late February. This escalation of violence raises alarms of a potential resurgence of civil war in South Sudan, as international observers highlight the precarious state of peace in the nation.
The dismissal of Upper Nile governor James Odhok Oyay by President Salva Kiir, amid escalating conflict in the region, marks a significant development in South Sudan’s political landscape. The actions taken by the government have prompted opposition backlash and fears of renewed warfare, emphasizing the need for sustainable dialogue and adherence to peace agreements. As violence displaces thousands, the country remains on edge, reflecting the fragile peace that currently exists in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
