On Friday morning, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres raised alarms about what he described as a “dramatic and dire situation” in South Sudan. The country has seen an increase in violent clashes that are severely affecting civilians.

Notably, on Wednesday night, First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest, further escalating tensions.

Guterres urged the political leaders of South Sudan to honor their commitments to peace, emphasizing the need to “fully restore the government of national unity” and implement the promises made in the peace agreement. He highlighted that this agreement is the only legal framework for ensuring peaceful, free, and fair elections scheduled for December 2026.

The African Union (AU) is collaborating with the UN to address the crisis. Guterres expressed full support for the AU’s initiative to deploy a panel of wise individuals and acknowledged the efforts of Kenya’s Special Envoy, President William Ruto. “We will be working in close cooperation with the AU,” he stated.

In a heartfelt message directed at South Sudan’s leaders, Guterres implored them to “put down the weapons” and prioritize the well-being of all citizens in South Sudan.

Both Salva Kiir, the current president, and Riek Machar, who is currently detained, are historical figures who played pivotal roles in securing South Sudan’s independence from Sudan in 2011.

However, analysts note that despite their collaboration, there is a significant rift between them. Their longstanding feud has intensified over time as Machar awaits his opportunity to assume the presidency while Kiir remains firmly in power.

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