South Sudan Faces Unrest as Vice President Machar Detained Amid Succession Tensions

With the detention of Vice President Riek Machar, South Sudan teeters on the brink of another civil war. The country, which gained independence in 2011, struggles with leadership succession, while tensions between Machar and President Salva Kiir rise, threatening regional stability and the safety of millions.

South Sudan's political landscape has become tumultuous as Vice President Riek Machar remains confined to his residence in Juba, facing heightened security measures since March. Reports indicate that armored vehicles surround his compound, with armed security personnel monitoring the area. Inside, Machar lives in solitude, with communication devices confiscated, while his wife continues to live within the compound under strict limitations.

This youngest nation, marking independence in 2011 with U.S. support, plunged into civil war within two years, fuelled by ethnic strife between Machar's faction and President Salva Kiir's forces. Although both leaders established a unity government in 2020 meant to usher in elections, peace remains elusive as Machar faces accusations of instigating a rebellion via the White Army militia. This group has recently been involved in hostile actions, including the downing of a U.N. helicopter.

Amid escalating violence and uncertainty regarding succession in South Sudan, fears are rampant that the nation could revert to civil conflict, potentially displacing millions of refugees to already stressed neighboring countries, such as Ethiopia and Sudan. The turmoil has already influenced regional dynamics, with Uganda providing military support to Kiir's regime.

Puok Both Baluang, the acting press secretary for Machar, stated that the vice president's detention violates constitutional rights and raises serious concerns about his protections as a government official. With tensions peaking, South Sudan stands on a precarious precipice, potentially edging toward widespread unrest.