South Sudan on Brink of Renewed Civil War, Warns UN Envoy
The UN envoy warns South Sudan is nearing renewed civil war as ethnic tensions rise, following postponed elections and ongoing conflict involving rebel groups. The situation requires cooperation between President Kiir and Vice President Machar to restore peace and stability, amidst escalating violence and misinformation.
South Sudan faces a critical juncture, with warnings from the top United Nations official, Nicolas Haysom, regarding the potential for renewed civil conflict. Haysom described the situation as “dire” and emphasized that peace efforts depend on the cooperation of President Salva Kiir and rival Vice President Riek Machar, urging them to prioritize their citizens’ needs over personal interests.
Since achieving independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan experienced a devastating civil war beginning in December 2013, fueled by ethnic strife between the Dinka and Nuer groups. This conflict resulted in over 40,000 fatalities and ended with a 2018 peace agreement, uniting Kiir and Machar in a transitional government. However, critical elections were postponed from February 2023 to December 2024 and later to 2026.
Current tensions have escalated due to clashes in Northern South Sudan involving government forces and the White Army rebel group, allegedly backed by Machar. Recent violence included the deaths of a South Sudanese general and others during a UN helicopter mission in Nasir, revealing the precarious nature of the security situation. Furthermore, the White Army captured a military base in Nasir leading to government retaliation, further exacerbating tensions.
Haysom indicated that as elections approach, competition between Kiir and Machar is intensifying, undermining trust necessary for implementing the 2018 peace agreement. He highlighted the detrimental impact of misinformation and hate speech that fuels ethnic divisions and fear among the populace.
Given these circumstances, Haysom concluded that South Sudan is perilously close to slipping back into civil war, invoking memories of the atrocities experienced in previous conflicts. He emphasized the importance of addressing “ethnic transformation” in the conflict and noted that the UN peacekeeping mission is actively engaging in shuttle diplomacy with regional and international stakeholders, including the African Union, to avert further escalation.
In summary, South Sudan is at a critical crossroad as outlined by UN envoy Nicolas Haysom, who warns of a potential return to civil war due to escalating tensions and postponed elections. Efforts for peace depend on cooperation between leaders Kiir and Machar. The situation is exacerbated by misinformation, distrust, and ethnic tensions, necessitating urgent dialogue and adherence to previous peace agreements to foster stability in the nation.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
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