ODM leader Raila Odinga has arrived in Uganda for consultations with President Yoweri Museveni following his recent visit to South Sudan, where he held discussions with President Salva Kiir. The visit comes amid escalating tensions in the world’s youngest nation, with fears of a return to civil war looming.
Raila landed in Entebbe on Friday after what he described as a “detailed and fruitful discussion” with Kiir in Juba. In a statement on X, Raila expressed hope that a peaceful resolution to the crisis was possible, emphasizing the need to avoid further escalation.
“Landed in Entebbe, Uganda for a briefing session with President Yoweri Museveni following my fact-finding mission on the political situation in South Sudan. I remain hopeful that a peaceful way out of the political uncertainty in South Sudan is possible, and further escalation can be avoided,” he stated.
Following his discussions with Kiir, Raila expressed optimism that the crisis could be resolved amicably. He also announced plans to brief other regional leaders, including Kenya’s President William Ruto, on his mission and a potential roadmap for sustainable peace and stability in South Sudan.
The crisis in South Sudan intensified after reports emerged of the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar and his wife, Angelina Teny, who serves as the country’s interior minister. This development has fueled concerns that the fragile peace agreement in the country could collapse, leading to renewed conflict.
President Ruto, in response to the situation, held a phone call with President Kiir on Thursday and announced that he had dispatched a special envoy to Juba to mediate and ease tensions. Ruto further noted that he had consulted with President Museveni and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali before taking this step.
The United Nations has repeatedly warned that South Sudan is on the brink of a return to civil war following weeks of escalating tensions between Machar and Kiir. With regional leaders now actively engaging in mediation efforts, hopes remain that a diplomatic solution can be found to prevent further instability in the country.
