Facebook Twitter Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
President Mohamud Calls for Dialogue and Regional Cooperation as Arrests and Clashes Escalate
Somalia has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the people of South Sudan as the country grapples with rising political tensions following the arrest of several opposition party leaders. In a statement issued on Sunday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared that Somalia “stands in full solidarity” with South Sudan during this turbulent period.
The Somali leader conveyed his concerns during a phone call with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. Mohamud emphasized the need for sustained efforts to ensure stability in South Sudan, pledging Somalia’s active involvement in peace initiatives.
Expressing Somalia’s “deep concern” over the recent developments, President Mohamud urged all parties to engage in dialogue and cooperation to prevent further deterioration of the situation. He stressed that South Sudan’s stability is not only crucial for its citizens but also for the broader security of the East African region.
“The stability of South Sudan is integral to the peace and security of our wider region,” Mohamud stated. He also assured both Kiir and Machar that discussions are ongoing at the regional level to support South Sudan’s path toward stability and long-term prosperity.
“As a region, we remain committed to supporting efforts that will lead to a peaceful resolution,” he added, reaffirming Somalia’s dedication to diplomatic solutions.
Tensions in South Sudan escalated earlier this month when security forces loyal to President Kiir detained two government ministers and several senior military officials associated with Vice President Machar. The arrests were made amid intensifying clashes between government forces and the White Army militia, an armed group primarily composed of members of the Nuer ethnic community, to which Machar belongs.
According to South Sudanese authorities, the arrests were linked to alleged cooperation between Machar’s faction and the White Army militia, which was accused of launching an attack on a military garrison near the town of Nasir on Tuesday. Government Information Minister Michael Makuei justified the arrests, asserting they were carried out in accordance with the law. However, Machar’s party has denied any involvement in the alleged activities.
The situation remains volatile as tensions between the rival factions continue to mount.
The crisis deepened on Friday when a United Nations helicopter was shot down while attempting to evacuate soldiers from Nasir. The attack resulted in the deaths of a crew member and multiple soldiers, further exacerbating instability in the region. The downing of the aircraft has drawn widespread condemnation and raised fears of escalating violence.
The latest wave of unrest underscores South Sudan’s ongoing struggle to maintain peace and implement key reforms following years of conflict.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has faced persistent political and ethnic violence. By 2013, the country had descended into a brutal civil war, pitting forces loyal to President Kiir against those aligned with Vice President Machar. After years of conflict, a 2018 peace agreement brought an end to large-scale fighting, but many of its key provisions remain unimplemented.
Reforms outlined in the agreement, including the disarmament of armed factions and preparations for national elections, have faced significant delays. The lack of progress has fueled political tensions, making it increasingly difficult to achieve lasting peace and stability in the young nation.
With Somalia and other regional partners actively engaged in diplomatic efforts, there is hope that a peaceful resolution can be reached. However, the recent arrests and violent clashes highlight the fragility of the situation.
President Mohamud’s statement reinforces Somalia’s commitment to supporting South Sudan through dialogue and cooperation, as leaders across the region work to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for lasting peace.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether South Sudan’s leaders can navigate this crisis and uphold the fragile peace agreement that has so far prevented a return to full-scale conflict.