Peace Agreement Under Strain
President Salva Kiir’s dismissal of several high-profile allies of First Vice-President Riek Machar has reignited debate over the durability of South Sudan’s fragile 2018 peace accord.
Signed to halt a five-year civil war, the agreement mandated a unity cabinet, a unified army, and elections now pencilled for late 2024.
Details of the Late-Night Decree
In a decree aired after midnight on the state broadcaster, Kiir relieved Deputy Finance Minister Bech George Anyak and reshuffled seats in both legislative chambers, installing figures viewed as more sympathetic to the president’s Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.
Observers say the move weakens Machar’s leverage in cabinet discussions over security sector reform and the long-delayed permanent constitution.
Reactions from SPLM-IO Factions
Acting SPLM-IO chair Oyet Nathaniel labelled the shake-up a political purge, warning it could fracture an already splintered movement.
Former lawmaker Juol Nhomngek told local radio he foresaw his dismissal because he ‘stood with grassroots accountability’ despite parliamentary risks (Radio Tamazuj).
Regional Bodies Urge Calm
Hours before the decree, the African Union Peace and Security Council reiterated support for the accord and begged Juba’s leaders to quicken election preparations and inclusive dialogue (African Union communiqué).
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development is expected to send a fact-finding team, echoing calls from the United Nations for an end to inflammatory rhetoric.
Looking Ahead to National Polls
Kiir insists elections will proceed, yet technical benchmarks—such as a unified command and voter registry—remain incomplete, according to the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission.
Diplomats in Juba argue that sustained dialogue between Kiir and Machar, rather than unilateral staffing decisions, will determine whether South Sudan finally breaks its cycle of conflict.