What in the World South Sudan conflict: Explained
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Apr 10, 2025 Ashley Lime, a BBC reporter based in Nairobi, shares her insights on the escalating tensions in South Sudan, focusing on the fraught relationship between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar. She discusses the dire continuation of violence following a fragile peace deal signed in 2018, which aimed to end a devastating civil war. Lime highlights key events, including militia assaults and the dire humanitarian crisis, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention and dialogue to stave off further conflict.
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South Sudan's Formation
- South Sudan is the world's youngest nation, formed in 2011 after seceding from Sudan due to internal divisions.
- These divisions stemmed from cultural, religious, and economic differences, along with a sense of marginalization in the South.
Key Leaders in South Sudan
- Salva Kiir, the president, is a former military commander from the Dinka community.
- Riek Machar, the vice president, is a rebel leader and peacemaker from the Nuer community.
2013 Civil War
- A civil war broke out in 2013 after President Kiir accused Vice President Machar of plotting a coup.
- Kiir fired the entire cabinet, triggering the conflict.