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.

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]

Why South Sudanese Should Embrace the General Elections: Insights from Deputy Minister David Yau Yau

The Importance of the General Elections

• Deputy Minister David Yau Yau emphasizes the significance of the upcoming general elections in South Sudan.
• The elections serve as a crucial mechanism to evaluate the competence of political leaders.

Overcoming Fear and Embracing Participation

Yau Yau urges South Sudanese citizens not to fear the electoral process, describing it as a “good game” that individuals should wholeheartedly engage in. He highlights the opportunity for individuals to assess their own capabilities through participation in the elections.

Avoiding False Promises and Seeking Credibility

While acknowledging the tendency of politicians to make false promises during campaigns, Yau Yau cautions voters to be discerning. He stresses the importance of identifying areas of need and progress to ensure credible, free, and fair elections.

Workshop on Media Communication Strategy

Yau Yau’s remarks were made during a stakeholder validation workshop on a media communication strategy for the elections. The event, organized by the Media Authority and the National Communication Authority, focused on unpacking the Elections Media Communication Matrix.

Government Commitment to Credible Elections

Minister of Information Michael Makuei reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for credible elections. Despite ongoing political violence, the general elections are scheduled for December 2026.

Postponement and Extension of Electoral Roadmap

• South Sudan has yet to hold general elections since gaining independence in 2011.
• The national polls, initially planned for December 2024, were postponed following a two-year extension granted to the transitional government.
• President Salva Kiir signed Amendment Number 12 to the Transitional Constitution, extending the electoral roadmap to 2026.

Conclusion

As South Sudan prepares for its upcoming general elections, the words of Deputy Minister David Yau Yau serve as a reminder of the importance of citizen participation and the need for credible electoral processes. By overcoming fear, avoiding false promises, and engaging in the democratic process, South Sudanese can contribute to shaping a better future for their nation.