Call for Immediate Release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny to Prevent Bloodshed and Promote Peace in South Sudan

Concerned Citizens of South Sudan

March 28, 2025 (SSNA) — The concerned citizens of South Sudan are calling for the immediate release of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny to prevent bloodshed and promote peace and stability in the country.

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House Arrest of Dr. Riek Machar Teny

On March 26, 2025, the chairman of SPLM/A-IO, the First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan, Dr. Riek Machar Teny, was placed under house arrest in Juba, which raised widespread concern, with many viewing it as a provocative action that could escalate violence in the country.

Dr. Machar had returned to Juba in 2020 without his forces, based on assurances from President Salva Kiir Mayardit that he would implement the 2018 peace agreement. However, his house arrest has raised questions about the government’s commitment to peace. The international community, including the Troika, IGAD, African Union, and United Nations, had pressured Dr. Machar to return to Juba to implement the peace agreement in 2020. His acceptance of this request was seen as a patriotic move to bring peace to the country.

However, the lack of security arrangements for Dr. Machar’s return led to the defection of General Simon Gatwech Dual, who remains in the bush, waging war against President Kiir’s regime. The citizens of South Sudan are urging President Kiir to release Dr. Machar from house arrest, respecting the peace agreement that was promised to the world. They fear that another war could break out if the president does not abide by the agreement.

Potential Consequences of Dr. Machar’s House Arrest

• The escalation of violence in the country due to Dr. Machar’s house arrest, which could lead to renewed fighting between his supporters and government forces, potentially escalating into full-blown conflict, undermining the 2018 peace agreement.
• The increase in tensions between different ethnicities and political groups, potentially leading to further instability and a humanitarian crisis.
• The likelihood of renewed conflict leading to a humanitarian crisis, with potential displacement of civilians, increased hunger, and disease.

International Community’s Response

The international community has condemned Dr. Machar’s house arrest and will increase pressure on the government to release him and respect the peace agreement. The situation is volatile given the history of the 2013 civil war as the situation continues to unfold in the country.

Daniel Buom Meat Kujock

Contact email: [email protected]