South Sudan government says vice president Machar 'under house arrest': Video
The government of South Sudan has confirmed that First Vice President Riek Machar is "under house arrest," two days after his detention, amid growing tensions that threaten the country’s already fragile peace deal.
The announcement comes as former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrives in Juba to mediate the escalating political crisis between rival factions, the AFP reports.
Speaking at a press conference in the capital, Juba, Information Minister and government spokesperson Michael Makuei Lueth assured the public that the situation remains "normal and under full control."
“This is in accordance with intelligence and security reports, which indicate that Dr. Riek Machar, the First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chairman of the SPLM-IO, has been in contact with his supporters and military bases,” Lueth stated, adding that, “As a result of these contacts, several events unfolded in March, including the assembly and attack by the White Army on the Nasir garrison.”
President Salva Kiir Mayardit ordered Machar’s house arrest as a security measure to safeguard the peace agreement and maintain stability, according to Lueth.
“In order to save the agreement and exercise his constitutional powers, President Salva Kiir directed that Vice President Riek Machar be placed under house arrest, pending investigation,” he said. “Machar will remain under house arrest while investigations determine whether he is guilty or innocent.”
The government defended its actions against criticism that the move violates the peace deal, asserting that national security must take precedence over political agreements.
“People say this is a violation of the agreement. Does the agreement authorize anyone to take the lives of others? Does it allow unlawful actions under its cover? No. The agreement is governed by law, and we must abide by that law,” Lueth argued.
The situation adds further strain to South Sudan’s already fragile political situation over the past months.
