President William Ruto of Kenya has urged the South Sudan political leaders to take
immediate action to address the escalating security situation in the country.
On Monday,
President Salva Kiir held a crucial meeting at the request of First Vice
President Dr. Riek Machar to discuss the growing security issues, particularly
in Nassir County, Upper Nile State.
The leaders
agreed that SSPDF soldiers heading to Nassir should proceed peacefully.
However, the
following day, an attack occurred between the White Army and SSPDF forces in
Nassir.
The
government blamed the SPLM/A-IO forces for getting involved in the attack, a
claim that the opposition has denied.
This suspicion led to the arrest of some SPLM/A-IO officials in Juba, including Puot Kang, minister of Petroleum.
President
Ruto shared details of his recent discussions with South Sudanese leaders,
emphasizing the importance of dialogue to resolve the growing crisis.
"I spoke
with President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan and First Vice-President Riek
Machar about the escalating security situation in the country," Ruto says in a statement issued on Thursday.
"I
implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the
country even as the region works towards the stabilization of South Sudan under
IGAD's Strategic Framework."
Additionally,
Ruto confirmed that regional consultations were already underway to assess the
situation and find the best possible solution.
"I also
informed the two leaders that regional consultations are underway to determine
the best path forward for the situation in South Sudan," he stated.
With efforts
aimed at stabilization under IGAD's Strategic Framework, Ruto’s statement
highlights the growing urgency of collaborative peace efforts as South Sudan
grapples with internal conflicts.