UN Secretary-General Recognises Raila Odinga’s Role in South Sudan Peace Efforts: “We’re in Contact”
New York – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has acknowledged Kenya’s crucial role in preventing a full-blown crisis in South Sudan. He confirmed the UN is closely working with African leaders to restore peace amid rising tensions.
Raila Steps In as South Sudan Teeters on the Edge
The world’s youngest nation faces a new political storm following the arrest of Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) leader Riek Machar. Authorities accused him of derailing South Sudan’s unity vision. His detention has sparked fears of renewed civil war.
Kenyan President William Ruto, as chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), swiftly intervened to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was dispatched to Juba to mediate talks with President Salva Kiir and top government officials. However, attempts to meet Machar were blocked.
Guterres: UN Fully Supports Kenya’s Mediation
Speaking at the UN headquarters on March 28, Guterres reaffirmed the global body’s commitment to restoring peace. He praised African-led efforts and emphasized Raila’s key role in negotiations.
“We fully support the AU initiative to deploy the Panel of the Wise, as well as the efforts of Special Envoy Raila Odinga,” Guterres stated.
He stressed that the UN was working “in very close contact with the AU and IGAD to ensure these visits yield results.” The objective, he said, is “the re-establishment of the peace agreement and the creation of conditions for stability in South Sudan.”
A Nation on the Brink: What’s at Stake?
Guterres painted a grim picture of South Sudan’s future if tensions escalate.
“Let’s not mince words. What we are seeing is darkly reminiscent of the 2013 and 2016 civil wars, which killed 400,000 people.”
He warned of an economic meltdown, with inflation soaring and oil revenues declining. The UN chief insisted that the country’s only hope lies in adherence to the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). He urged leaders to abandon hostility and prioritize national unity.
“To the leaders of that country, I say: end the politics of confrontation. Release detained officials now. Fully restore the government of national unity. Implement the promises made through your peace agreement. That is the only legal framework for peaceful, free, and fair elections in December 2026.”
How Did South Sudan Get Here?
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 but quickly descended into conflict by 2013. Initial cooperation between Kiir and Machar collapsed amid allegations of a coup attempt. The power struggle fueled devastating civil wars until the 2018 peace deal brokered by international partners.
Despite the agreement, tensions persist. Machar’s recent arrest has reignited fears that South Sudan may slip back into chaos.
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UN Secretary-General Recognises Raila Odinga’s Role in South Sudan Peace Efforts: “We’re in Contact”
