African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Photo/Somaliland Chronicle
By Newsflash Team
The African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and Kenya have expressed deep concern over the escalating political tensions in South Sudan, following reports of the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar.
In a statement on March 27, 2025, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf urged all parties to de-escalate tensions and uphold the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which remains the foundation for lasting peace and national reconciliation.
The AU called for restraint, constructive dialogue, and an environment conducive to stability and development.
Read more: UN calls for dialogue in South Sudan
To support mediation efforts, the AU announced the deployment of the Panel of the Wise to Juba, reaffirming its commitment to peace, dialogue, and human rights. The AU also pledged to work closely with IGAD, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), and other regional and international partners to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
IGAD warns of renewed conflict
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu warned that the developments in South Sudan could derail the fragile peace process and lead to renewed violence.
Referring to the 43rd Extraordinary IGAD Assembly Communiqué issued on March 12, he called on all stakeholders to uphold the peace agreement and refrain from unilateral actions.
“The current trajectory, if unchecked, could collapse the transitional process and plunge South Sudan into full-scale war, with devastating consequences for its people and the entire region,” Workneh cautioned. He reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to supporting mediation and urged international partners to reinforce peace efforts.
Background: A nation on the brink
South Sudan has struggled with political instability since gaining independence in 2011. The country endured a brutal civil war from 2013 to 2018, resulting in nearly 400,000 deaths and the displacement of millions.
The 2018 R-ARCSS brought a fragile truce, establishing a power-sharing agreement between Machar and President Salva Kiir. However, tensions between the two leaders have persisted, with political disputes and sporadic violence threatening the peace process.
Machar’s reported house arrest has sparked fears of renewed conflict, raising concerns among regional and international stakeholders.
Kenya calls for restraint and diplomacy
Kenya has echoed similar concerns, urging all parties to prioritize peace. Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi called for restraint and adherence to the R-ARCSS.
Read more: Riek Machar placed under house arrest as tension rise in South Sudan
“We urge South Sudanese leaders to cease hostilities and uphold the peace agreement in the best interests of their people,” Mudavadi stated.
Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability and called for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation in Africa’s youngest nation.
As tensions rise, the AU, IGAD, and Kenya remain engaged in diplomatic efforts to prevent South Sudan from sliding back into conflict.
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