Conflict in South Sudan

It all started immediately after South Sudan separated from Sudan and became a “sovereign” state, immediately after their hero had passed away(John Garang). His great work was disgraced by the conflict.This was never his dream for his country, he imagined of a country that would well economically, politically and socially as well.

Just a tip of the iceberg on the potential of South Sudan; it is known for its richness in oil, it also has River Nile which flows through the region among many other resources. This demonstrates the country’s capability economically, both in the region and in Internationally. This can only be a reality if South Sudan has  proper governance and legislation. But sadly enough, this is not the case, in fact it falls among the poorest states in the world.

What is the conflict all about? It is a civil conflict. It all started because of the friction between the governing SPLM party, which is headed by the president Salva Kiir who comes from an ethnic group refered to as Dinka (it is the country largest group);  And his deputy Riek Machar, who is from the second largest community; the Nuer.

It is difficult to explain  whether South Sudan’s on going conflict was a planned plot, this is because it all started as a political squabble which then escalated to ethnic violence.

There have been several interventions to stop this conflict, though they have not been successful. IGAD has been playing a key role in talk to bring the country to a peaceful coexistence.

Currently, United States is or was  playing a key role in the peace process through the US Ambassador to Kenya, His Excellency Robert F. Godec. He insisted that if the parties involved in the conflict will continue fighting, there would be an arms embargo on South Sudan, travel bans would be issued to the government officials and also the AU military would be deployed to the country. The measures that was taken by the US seemed not to be supported by the Russian government. This is based on the comment that was issued byher Chancellor regarding the issue.

However, on my own personal opinion, I think that South Sudan has not yet established a ripe moment for negotiations, mediation yet this processes and agreements are being forced on them.  They should be left to discover this on their own just as it was with the civil conflict in Rwanda. Though this opinion may not seem appealing since so many lives will continue to lost in the process.

I conclude by suggesting that the external parties involved in the ongoing conflict should stop their engagement and pursue their interests in a diplomatic manner which does not involve being a catalyst in the conflict. South Sudanese leaders should also embrace the spirit of democracy and safe guarding the interests of all its citizens. The International community should also play a brotherly role in the peace process in South Sudan in various ways in which they are capable.By this practices I believe the South Sudanese will live their dreams.

By Beline Nyangi.

Author: Beline Nyangi

Beline is an International Relations Professional. She holds an MSc. degree in Conflict and Governance from University of Amsterdam. She has competence and interest in social policy research advisory and implementation in the areas of peace and security, transitional justice, human rights, refugee rights, immigration and social justice. She enjoys traveling, drinking "dawa", good books and rich and thoughtful conversation. View all posts by Beline Nyangi