South Sudan Faces Abyss of Civil War Amidst Treason Trial

Tue Sep 23 2025 09:07:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As tensions mount in South Sudan over the impending treason trial of Vice-President Riek Machar, fears of a return to civil conflict swell, threatening the fragile peace established after years of war.

Fears of a potential civil war in South Sudan have escalated following treason charges against suspended Vice-President Riek Machar, leading to calls for regime change by his party. The situation is aggravated by recent clashes involving the White Army militia and accusations of corruption within the government. As additional Ugandan troops are deployed to Juba amidst rising tensions, the stability of the region hangs in the balance.

Fears that South Sudan - the world's youngest nation - could plunge into a new civil war have intensified after the party of suspended Vice-President Riek Machar called for regime change. The call came after Machar - currently under house arrest - was charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity.

His party, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement In Opposition (SPLM-IO), has denounced the charges as a political witch-hunt aimed at undermining the 2018 peace accord that ended a five-year civil war. The growing crisis follows the recent deployment of additional troops from Uganda to South Sudan's capital, Juba, as tensions escalate.

A UN report has accused South Sudanese officials of embezzling billions in oil revenues, contributing to the persistent conflict and leaving millions without essential services.

Background

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after a long struggle, only to find itself deep in conflict two years later when President Salva Kiir dismissed Machar, accusing him of plotting a coup. This ignited a civil war largely fought along ethnic lines between Kiir's Dinka and Machar's Nuer supporters, resulting in an estimated 400,000 deaths and millions displaced.

Current Tensions

The recent crisis was triggered by clashes in March between the White Army militia and South Sudan's army. Following these events, Machar and his allies were placed under house arrest, accused of inciting rebellion. The government's charges against him, including treason, have only heightened the calls for regime change and armed resistance within his party.

Impact of Corruption

Corruption has played a significant role in exacerbating the situation. A UN report revealed that South Sudan's political elite has siphoned off billions in oil revenue, depriving many citizens of basic necessities. Reports of a failed Oil for Roads program illustrate the mismanagement and corruption that has remained a barrier to stability.

Conclusion

With Uganda sending additional troops and tensions rising, the potential for renewed conflict looms large. Observers warn that South Sudan is on the brink of civil war, which could lead to further instability in the region amid ongoing crises. The fragile peace and hope for stability established after years of violent conflict hang in the balance.