South Sudan is facing fresh political tension after opposition leaders called for mobilisation of forces. The move comes days after Riek Machar, their leader, was charged with treason and crimes against humanity.
Machar Charged With Treason
On Thursday, Machar was accused of murder, treason, and crimes against humanity. He was also stripped of his role as first vice-president. Authorities claim he ordered a militia attack in March that killed more than 250 soldiers at a military base.
Machar has been under house arrest for months. His supporters deny the charges, calling them part of a political plan to silence the opposition.
Opposition Response
In a statement signed by acting chairman Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, the opposition accused President Salva Kiir of running a dictatorship. The statement said the current government is built on “state capture and violence.”
The opposition vowed to push for “regime change.” It also called on supporters to report for “National Service” in defence of the country and its citizens.
Rising Fears of Conflict
Analysts warn that the mobilisation call is more symbolic than military. Daniel Akech of the International Crisis Group said Machar’s supporters were already mobilised. He described the statement as a “red warning” for international partners still hoping the peace deal can be saved.
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 but soon fell into a bloody civil war that killed 400,000 people. The conflict between Kiir and Machar officially ended with a 2018 peace deal.
However, elections set for December 2024 were postponed to 2026. The failure to unify rival forces has left the peace agreement fragile.
UN Calls for Calm
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan urged both sides to work together. It called on leaders to reduce violence and recommit to the peace process.
But with Machar now facing trial and his allies preparing for mobilisation, fears of a new wave of violence are growing.
