South Sudan Considers Replacing Detained Vice President Riek Machar

Government Weighs Removal Amid Investigation Into Violence Allegations

The South Sudanese government has signaled that detained First Vice President Riek Machar could be replaced pending an investigation into his alleged involvement in recent violent incidents. This development comes amid growing political tensions in the country.

Political Shakeup in SPLM-IO Leadership

Earlier this month, a faction within Machar’s SPLM-IO party declared Stephen Par Kuol as interim chairman following Machar’s arrest in March. President Salva Kiir detained the First Vice President over accusations of orchestrating attacks on the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in Nasir by the White Army, a Nuer youth militia.

Par, who serves as Minister for Peacebuilding, was nominated as interim leader shortly after being suspended from the SPLM-IO by acting chairman Oyet Nathaniel.

Growing Opposition to Machar’s Replacement

The move to replace Machar—who remains under house arrest—has faced strong resistance from the armed wing of the SPLM-IO, which maintains loyalty to their leader. Several senior party members boycotted the leadership meeting in protest.

If removed, this would mark Machar’s second ouster as First Vice President. In July 2016, he was replaced by then-mining minister Taban Deng Gai following deadly clashes in Juba.

Peace Agreement Implementation Stalls

Kiir, Machar, and other leaders signed a 2018 peace deal to end South Sudan’s brutal civil war, but implementation has stalled over key issues including security reforms, election preparations, and drafting a permanent constitution.

Information Minister Michael Makuei stated at a Juba press conference that Machar’s position could be vacated if investigators find sufficient evidence against him. “If the investigation committee finds a case against Riek Machar, they will recommend prosecution,” Makuei said.

Legal and Political Implications

Makuei emphasized that Machar must first be formally removed before facing prosecution over the Nasir violence, which reportedly killed hundreds. “He cannot be tried while still First Vice President,” Makuei stated.

The Information Minister insisted Machar’s detention doesn’t derail the 2018 peace agreement or December 2024 elections. He noted the SPLM-IO has splintered into four factions, with only one still supporting the peace deal.

Civil Society Warns of Potential Conflict

Civil society groups have warned that Machar’s removal could violate the 2018 accord and reignite conflict. Ter Mayang of the Center for Peace and Advocacy cited Article 1.7.2, which stipulates Machar remains First Vice President during the transitional period.

“This move may not be accepted by SPLA-IO generals still in the bush,” Mayang cautioned, warning that unilaterally replacing Machar risks repeating the 2016 crisis that triggered renewed fighting.

Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro outlined plans to advance the peace agreement without Machar’s faction, including recognizing a new SPLM-IO group in Juba and accelerating election preparations.

This article is based on original reporting. Full credit to the source.