JUBA — The United People’s Alliance (UPA) is a prominent non-signatory opposition coalition. It has expressed deep skepticism over the government’s recent high-profile corruption crackdown. They labeled it a strategic maneuver to distract from the “imminent collapse” of the South Sudanese state.
In a candid interview with Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday, March 3, 2024, UPA Spokesperson Bor Gatwech Kuany argued. He stated that the wave of arrests targets the finance and security sectors. This is an attempt to ease mounting regional pressure. This follows the recent African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa.
“Symptoms of a Collapsing State”
The UPA’s critique centers on a paradox. The government is arresting its own key operators. Meanwhile, intercommunal violence spirals out of control in the peripheries.
Violence as Evidence: Kuany cited the “horrific” massacre of nearly 200 people in Abiemnom (Ruweng) and the killing of 21 people in Ayod (Jonglei) as clear indicators of state fragility.
The “Deflection” Theory: The opposition suggests the arrests. This includes the arrest of former Revenue Authority chief Simon Akuei Deng. These actions aim to signal “reform” to international observers. These actions happen while avoiding meaningful political dialogue.
Command Confusion: “In Juba, arrests are ongoing. They target people we believe are running the government. So we do not know who is giving orders,” Kuany remarked. He questioned the stability of the inner circle.
The Stalled Path to Peace
The UPA is led by Pagan Amum, who is the leader of the real SPLM. It remains a critical “hold-out” group. This group did not sign the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Tumaini Initiative: The coalition participated in the Kenya-led Tumaini (Hope) Initiative in 2025. Yet, the process has remained stalled for months.
South Africa Retreat: There are rumors of a high-level peace retreat in South Africa. However, Kuany revealed that the UPA has not yet received an official invitation. They stay “ready to attend any initiative aimed at rescuing this country.”
The Government’s Defense
Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny has consistently maintained that the arrests are strictly legal and not political.
Financial Malpractice: The government asserts the detainees are being investigated for large-scale “financial malpractices” that have crippled the economy.
No Charges Yet: Critics point out that despite the public nature of the arrests, none of the high-profile figures have been formally charged in a court of law. This includes the recently dismissed and detained Dr. Bak Barnaba Chol.