The resurgence of violence in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state stems from intensified tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The internal conflict is influenced by the external crisis in Sudan, leading to numerous arrests and an escalation of hostilities, with significant repercussions for civilian populations. Concerns grow over the potential risks of widespread conflict as corruption and governmental failings worsen.
South Sudan is experiencing a significant increase in violence, particularly in the Upper Nile state, attributed to the spillover effects of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This situation exacerbates existing internal divisions and rampant corruption, putting the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement at considerable risk.
The renewed tensions stem from escalating conflicts between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, both former rebel leaders. Recent arrests of Machar’s allies, including the oil minister, in Juba have intensified hostilities. The South Sudan National Security Service stated, “We have arrested and detained several individuals suspected of verified links to the escalating military confrontation.”
Since mid-February, violence has surged in the Upper Nile, involving the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the armed group known as the “White Army,” associated with Machar. A recent U.N. rescue helicopter mission came under fire, tragically resulting in the death of a general and 27 soldiers, with thousands displaced and many injured, according to a Human Rights Watch statement.
Five years after the 2018 peace deal, which concluded a devastating civil war, the stability of South Sudan remains threatened. The conflict, which has claimed nearly 400,000 lives and displaced millions, is now further destabilized by the civil war in Sudan that began in April 2023.
The International Crisis Group noted that South Sudan’s economy suffered greatly after a critical pipeline was damaged, leading to a loss of two-thirds of oil revenue. This economic crisis has severely impacted Kiir’s government, stripping it of the funds necessary for maintaining its patronage system, thus undermining his power.
Moreover, the military in Sudan has historically exploited South Sudan’s ethnic tensions, exacerbating fears that conflicts between the Dinka and Nuer groups may escalate. As a result, countries and organizations are increasingly concerned about the potential for widespread violence.
According to a report from the U.N. Commission on Human Rights, political and military leaders in South Sudan are “fueling violence and instability.” Yasmin Sooka, chair of the commission, stated, “The leadership continues its violent power struggles across the country and is failing the people of South Sudan.” With rising public frustration due to the inadequate governance of Kiir and Machar, South Sudan risks collapse and could devolve into a haven for militia activities and illicit enterprises.
In summary, South Sudan faces a critical juncture as renewed violence and political strife threaten to dismantle the fragile peace established in 2018. The internal conflict between rival political factions, exacerbated by the economic fallout of the Sudanese war, has resulted in a precarious security situation. With increasing ethnic tensions and widespread discontent among the populace, the risk of a larger conflict looms, necessitating urgent attention and intervention from the international community.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
