Tensions Rise in South Sudan as Ruling Coalition Faces Internal Cracks

Political instability looms in South Sudan as divisions emerge within the ruling coalition, raising concerns about the country’s future governance.

International concern is growing over the rising tension in South Sudan, as fractures become evident within the country’s ruling coalition.

Recent clashes in the northeastern Upper Nile State between forces loyal to the president and those aligned with the first vice president are jeopardizing a delicate power-sharing agreement.

In 2018, a unity government was established with President Salva Kiir at the helm and former rebel leader Riek Machar serving as First Vice President.

This came after a peace agreement that concluded the country’s five-year civil war, which claimed nearly 400,000 lives.

An armed group engaged in a confrontation with the country’s army on Tuesday, resulting in the arrest of two government ministers and a deputy army chief who is aligned with Machar.

Amid escalating concerns over the potential resurgence of a full-scale civil war, the United States directed all non-essential personnel to depart South Sudan on Sunday.

The travel advisory stated that conflicts were continuing and noted that “weapons are easily accessible to the public.”

On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked during a rescue mission, resulting in the death of one crew member.

The UN Commission on Human Rights in the country stated on Saturday that it was observing a concerning decline, which could potentially undo years of hard-fought advancement.

“Instead of inciting division and conflict, leaders must urgently concentrate on the peace process, protect the human rights of South Sudanese citizens, and facilitate a seamless transition to democracy,” stated Chairperson Yasmin Sooka.