South Sudan: A Country Held Hostage by Ethnic and Tribal Divisions

By Emmanuel Malual Makuach

In South Sudan, the political class has created a stronghold, with corruption and ethnic divisions running rampant. Dr. Riek Machar’s peace agreement led to a bloated government with multiple vice presidents and his wife appointed as Minister of Defense. Corruption has infiltrated the state-owned oil company, Nilepet, exacerbating economic woes.

Since independence, ethnic and tribal polarization has hindered progress and fueled conflicts. The economic collapse has left civil servants unpaid for months, yet they hold onto hope amidst political strife. Ethnicity continues to play a significant role in political movements, with tribal allegiances shaping loyalties.

Ethnic politics in South Sudan have created a divisive landscape, with key leaders using tribal affiliations to amass power. The Khartoum Peace Agreement brought temporary calm, but the underlying issues persist. The ethnic divide is further deepened by political appointments, perpetuating tensions.

The Tumaini Peace Initiative aims to bridge the divide, but challenges persist in reconciling the government and opposition groups. As South Sudan grapples with its turbulent past and uncertain future, the role of ethnicity in shaping the nation’s destiny remains a central issue.

Contact the author at malualmakuach77@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed are solely those of the author and not of Radio Tamazuj