Kenya has stepped up its peacekeeping efforts in South Sudan by deploying four police specialists as part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This move comes in response to escalating tensions following the reported house arrest of South Sudan’s First Vice President, Riek Machar.
President William Ruto confirmed on Thursday that he had spoken with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir to address the situation surrounding Machar’s detention. The Kenyan officers, briefed by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, will undertake specialized duties aimed at bolstering peacekeeping efforts and addressing persistent security threats, such as cattle raids.
The deployment underscores Kenya’s ongoing commitment to regional stability, as South Sudan continues to grapple with internal conflict since gaining independence in 2011. The latest tensions erupted after a convoy of heavily armed vehicles reportedly stormed Machar’s residence in Juba, disarming his security personnel. Machar’s party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLM-IO), has condemned the incident, warning of its potential to reignite civil war.
The international community, including the United States, has called for Machar’s release, emphasizing the need to prevent further hostilities. Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged all parties to adhere to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) peace agreements, while Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi appealed for restraint and the upholding of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
As violence intensifies between forces loyal to Machar and President Kiir, Kenya’s deployment aims to support peacekeeping efforts and foster stability in the region.
