South Sudan: call for the release of Vice President Riek Machar

Regional commission warns of violations of peace agreement

The Commission for Monitoring the 2018 Peace Agreement in South Sudan, set up by the East African organization Igad, is sounding the alarm. In its quarterly report published on April 28, 2025, it expressly calls for the release of Vice President Riek Machar and other opposition figures, arrested last March by President Salva Kiir. It sees this as a flagrant violation of the commitments made in the peace agreement signed six years ago.

A peace process threatened by unilateral decisions

The Commission notes serious setbacks on the political front. In particular, it accuses the presidential camp of having taken unilateral measures: the arrest of Machar, the invitation of Ugandan troops without consulting partners, and imposed government reshuffles. While both sides are held responsible for ceasefire violations, the political excesses are essentially the responsibility of the central government, according to the report.

The peace agreement still considered fundamental

Despite escalating tensions and renewed fighting between government forces and rebels, the Igad Commission is not giving up hope of re-engagement. It maintains that the 2018 agreement remains the cornerstone of the country’s stability. Observers are calling for renewed dialogue, believing that “room for maneuver remains” to break the current deadlock.

Conclusion: South Sudan faces a decisive turning point

Riek Machar’s detention and Juba’s growing authoritarianism are jeopardizing an already fragile peace process. As the regional community attempts to salvage what can be salvaged, compliance with the 2018 commitments is more crucial than ever to avoid a return to widespread conflict. The release of the Vice-President could be the first step towards a lasting de-escalation.