By Spy Uganda Correspondent
In a dramatic turn of events, South Sudan’s First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny, has been placed under house arrest along with his wife, Hon. Angelina Teny, the country’s Minister of Interior. The arrests, carried out by South Sudan’s National Security Services, Tiger Division, and the SSPDF, were reportedly executed under the directives of President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
According to a press release issued by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO), security forces stormed Dr. Machar’s residence at approximately 9:46 PM (CAT) and detained both him and his wife. Additionally, members of his security detail were arrested and relocated to separate locations.
Peace Agreement In Jeopardy
The SPLM-IO strongly condemned the arrests, warning that they have put the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in serious jeopardy. The 2018 agreement, which ended South Sudan’s devastating civil war, was signed by both President Kiir and Dr. Machar, alongside other key stakeholders. However, SPLM-IO leaders now argue that the detention of Dr. Machar effectively nullifies the peace accord, raising fears of renewed instability.
“This arrest by President Salva Kiir is an act of deceit, breaking promises, dishonoring agreements, and a clear lack of political will to bring peace and stability to the country,” the press release stated.
The SPLM-IO also highlighted ongoing military attacks by government forces on Cantonment sites and training centers in Wunliet, Aswa, and Rejaf. These attacks, they claim, represent serious violations of both the Permanent Ceasefire and the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) of 2017.
Calls For International Intervention
In response to the escalating crisis, the SPLM-IO is urging the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), C5 Countries, and the United Nations (UN) to step in and ensure the safety and immediate release of Dr. Machar and other political detainees.
Rt. Hon. Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, the First Deputy Speaker of South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly and Deputy Chairman of the SPLM-IO, signed the statement, calling on party members and the general public to remain steadfast while diplomatic efforts to secure Dr. Machar’s release continue.
As tensions rise, many fear that the arrest of Dr. Machar could destabilize South Sudan, potentially leading to renewed conflict. The international community is expected to closely monitor the situation, as calls for de-escalation and dialogue intensify.
