Sudden Political Upheaval in Juba
President Salva Kiir’s mid-week decrees removed several senior SPLM-IO figures from parliament and the Council of States, triggering fresh tension inside South Sudan’s delicate unity government formed under the 2018 Revitalised Agreement.
The dismissals affect Speaker Deng Deng, First Deputy Speaker Oyet Nathaniel, and Chief Whip Farouk Gatkuoth, all close allies of First Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar.
Presidential Decrees Spark Opposition Alarm
Acting SPLM-IO foreign relations chair Reath Muoch Tang condemned the move as “a systematic campaign to dismantle the peace agreement,” insisting no prior consultation occurred within the coalition.
Muoch argued that unilateral changes erode the accord’s power-sharing formula, warning that faith in the transition could collapse if partner parties feel excluded.
Claims of Power-Sharing Breach
The 2018 accord allocates executive, legislative and security positions among rival factions to prevent renewed conflict. Observers note that balance is fragile, reliant on constant consensus among signatories.
“Once trust disappears, loopholes widen for spoilers,” said Nairobi-based analyst Nyachieak Gatluak, citing previous walkouts that stalled constitutional reforms.
Regional Bodies Urged to Intervene
SPLM-IO called on IGAD, the African Union and international guarantors to publicly censure the dismissals, arguing silence could embolden future infractions and risk a slide back to armed confrontation.
The party further proposed that South Sudan’s oil revenue be placed in an externally monitored escrow account to curb alleged misuse for military purposes.
Government’s Position and Next Steps
Juba officials have not publicly detailed motives behind the reshuffle, yet presidential aides told local media the changes aim to “improve legislative efficiency and accelerate reforms.”
Rumours of fresh mediation efforts are circulating among diplomats, who say discreet shuttle talks could restore confidence before the crucial 2024 electoral timetable.
Prospects for Dialogue and Stability
Despite harsh rhetoric, SPLM-IO reaffirmed commitment to “protect peace and prevent a return to war,” signalling willingness to meet regional envoys.
With external pressure and internal pragmatism, analysts believe a negotiated compromise remains plausible, though the coming weeks will test the resilience of South Sudan’s hard-won peace.