NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 29 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has sounded the alarm over South Sudan’s worsening crisis, describing it as a security emergency, political turmoil, humanitarian catastrophe, and economic meltdown.
Addressing the press on Friday, Guterres called the situation “dramatic and dire” and urged immediate diplomatic, political, and financial support to stabilize the country and provide lifesaving aid.
Tensions escalated further on Wednesday night when First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest, raising concerns of a potential political showdown in the fragile nation.
“I implore South Sudan’s leaders to fully restore the government of national unity and vigorously implement the peace agreement,” Guterres stated.
“This is the only legal framework for peaceful, free, and fair elections in December 2026.”
He noted that the United Nations was working with the African Union (AU) to HELP de-escalate the crisis.
“We fully support the A.U. initiative to deploy the Panel of the Wise, as well as the efforts of President Ruto’s special envoy from Kenya,” Guterres confirmed, emphasizing the close cooperation between the two organizations.
In a direct appeal to South Sudan’s leadership, Guterres urged: “Put down the weapons. Put the people of South Sudan first.”
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and the now-detained First Vice President Riek Machar—both instrumental in securing the country’s independence from Sudan in 2011—have long been political rivals.
Analysts note that their feud has intensified in recent years, with Machar waiting for his turn to lead while Kiir holds onto power.
As tensions mount, the international community remains on high alert, pushing for a peaceful resolution before the crisis spirals further out of control.
