Somalia has reaffirmed its strong support for the people of South Sudan as the country faces rising political unrest following the arrests of opposition leaders. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized Somalia’s commitment to regional stability during phone conversations on Sunday with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, Kiir’s political rival.
“We will remain actively engaged in efforts aimed at securing a peaceful and stable future for their nation,” President Mohamud stated in a press release, expressing deep concern over recent developments. He urged both sides to engage in dialogue and cooperation to prevent further escalation.
“South Sudan’s stability is integral to the peace and security of our wider region,” he added, assuring both leaders that ongoing regional discussions are focused on supporting peace and stability in the country.
Tensions in South Sudan have intensified following the arrests of two government ministers and several senior military officials linked to Machar. The detentions, carried out by security forces loyal to Kiir, came amid violent clashes between national forces and the White Army militia, a group largely drawn from Machar’s ethnic Nuer community. Authorities have accused Machar’s faction of collaborating with the militia in an attack on a military garrison near the northern town of Nasir, claims that Machar’s party has denied.
The situation worsened further on Friday when a UN helicopter attempting to evacuate soldiers from Nasir was shot down, resulting in the deaths of a crew member and several soldiers. The attack has escalated tensions in the already volatile region.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has struggled with instability since descending into civil war in 2013. While the 2018 peace deal brought an end to large-scale fighting, key provisions such as the disarmament of armed groups and preparations for elections have faced significant delays. Somalia’s pledge of solidarity highlights the continued regional efforts to stabilize the young nation and prevent further conflict.