International apprehension is rising regarding the escalating tensions in South Sudan as fissures appear within the ruling coalition.
Recent confrontations in the northeastern Upper Nile State between factions loyal to the president and the first vice president pose a significant threat to the delicate power-sharing arrangement.
The unity government, established in 2018 under President Salva Kiir, with former rebel leader Riek Machar serving as First Vice President, was a result of a peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil war, which claimed nearly 400,000 lives.
On Tuesday, an armed group engaged in conflict with the national army, resulting in the detention of two government ministers and a deputy army chief aligned with Machar.
As concerns mount over the possibility of a renewed civil war, the United States ordered the evacuation of all non-emergency personnel from South Sudan on Sunday.
The travel advisory highlighted ongoing fighting and noted that “weapons are readily available to the population.”
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked during a rescue operation, resulting in the death of a crew member.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan reported on Saturday that it is observing a troubling regression that threatens to undo years of hard-won progress.
“Leaders must urgently redirect their efforts towards the peace process, uphold the human rights of South Sudanese citizens, and facilitate a smooth transition to democracy,” stated chairperson Yasmin Sooka.
