Fears of Civil War in South Sudan Intensify Amid Kiir-Machar Rivalry
Tensions in South Sudan have spiked following the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar, as political rivalry with President Salva Kiir raises fears of a renewed civil war.
Published on March 29, 2025
In March 2025, tensions in South Sudan escalated sharply following the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar in Juba. His detention, coupled with increasing clashes between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those supporting Machar, has put the fragile peace initiated by the 2018 agreement at serious risk.
International voices are voicing deep concerns. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as reminiscent of past civil wars and urged global leaders to unite in support of peace. Regional efforts are also underway, with Kenya dispatching former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to help mediate the crisis. These developments underscore the urgent need for de-escalation and dialogue as longstanding political rivalries and ethnic fault lines threaten renewed conflict in the nation.