Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-04-07 03:13:05
On April 6, 2024, First Vice President Riek Machar of South Sudan issued a stark warning about the potential spillover of the conflict in neighbouring Sudan into their nation if swift action is not taken to address the escalating tensions. Speaking at an iftar gathering for the Muslim community on April 5, 2024, at his residence, Vice President Machar expressed his concerns and emphasized the urgent need for intervention to prevent the conflict in Sudan from negatively impacting South Sudan.
Vice President Machar highlighted the wide-ranging consequences of the conflict in Sudan, not only on the economy but also on the security of South Sudan. He stressed the importance of achieving peace in Sudan to ensure the stability of his own nation. As the leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), Vice President Machar played a key role in the 2018 revitalized peace agreement that aimed to resolve the internal conflict in South Sudan.
The peace negotiations, which took place in Khartoum, Sudan, were facilitated by Sudan and Uganda, with the support of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional bloc consisting of eight member states. The involvement of Sudan and Uganda as mediators was driven by their deep understanding of the regional dynamics and their strong ties within the region.
Vice President Machar expressed concerns that the internal strife within Sudan’s political leadership could hinder the implementation of critical provisions outlined in the peace agreement. The ongoing challenges facing Sudan could distract from the necessary security arrangements outlined in the agreement, potentially derailing progress towards peace.
Machar emphasized that resolving the conflict in Sudan was crucial not only to prevent violence from spilling over into South Sudan but also to create momentum for the effective implementation of key provisions within the peace agreement. By addressing the root causes of the conflict in Sudan, both nations could work towards stability and peace in the region.
It is clear that the situation in Sudan has significant implications for South Sudan, and Vice President Machar’s warning serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the two nations’ fates. Urgent action is needed to address the conflict in Sudan and prevent its negative impact on the stability and security of South Sudan. Only through concerted efforts and effective diplomacy can both nations move towards lasting peace and prosperity.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
