JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN — South Sudan is on high alert after the dramatic arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The move has raised alarms from the United Nations and international observers, amid fears of renewed armed conflict in the country.
Heavy Security Operation in Juba
According to Machar’s party, a convoy of more than 20 heavily armed vehicles stormed his residence in the capital, Juba, disarmed his security team, and took him into custody. The arrest was carried out by state security forces under unclear circumstances.
UN: Country on the Brink of Conflict
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) issued a warning that the nation may be on the verge of widespread conflict. “Tonight, the country’s leaders stand on the brink of relapsing into widespread conflict,” said UNMISS chief Nicholas Haysom.
Peace Deal in Jeopardy
The 2018 peace agreement, which ended a five-year civil war, is now in serious danger. Analysts say the government’s recent moves—including arrests of over 20 of Machar’s allies—have undermined the deal’s stability and deepened political divides.
Clashes and Rising Tensions
Recent weeks have seen violent clashes in Upper Nile State and around Juba, where government troops have allegedly targeted military bases loyal to Machar. His party claims these were training sites meant to unify national forces as outlined in the peace deal.
International Concern Grows
International observers, including the UK and US embassies, have begun scaling down operations. Norway and Germany have shut their embassies altogether, citing security concerns. Diplomats fear that a fresh wave of violence could destabilize the entire region.
Calls for Dialogue
Despite the turmoil, President Salva Kiir recently reaffirmed his commitment to peace after meeting with religious leaders. However, many believe it’s time for urgent dialogue, with experts warning that the violence could quickly spiral beyond control if not addressed.
A Nation at a Crossroads
South Sudan gained independence in 2011, but years of civil war, political strife, and underdevelopment have left the country fragile. With Machar’s arrest and rising instability, the future of peace now hangs in the balance.
Reporting by The star
