Drawing on its deep-rooted relationship with South Sudan, the United Kingdom has renewed its diplomatic appeal for the release of political detainees, with particular emphasis on First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar.
The move underscores the UK’s growing concern over stalled peace efforts and political instability in the country.
Clare Staunton, the UK’s Special Representative to South Sudan, concluded a diplomatic visit to Juba this week, holding discussions with senior government officials, party representatives, civil society actors, and international partners.
Her mission is to reinforce the UK’s support for peace while pressing for urgent progress on key commitments under the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
A focal point of her engagements was the immediate cessation of hostilities and the unconditional release of political figures who remain in detention, concerns that have continued to dominate the agenda of South Sudan’s peace monitors and allies.
“Dialogue is the only way to move beyond political deadlock,” Staunton said in a statement on Friday. “We hope our voice will contribute to the mounting international pressure on South Sudan’s leadership towards dialogue.”
The UK envoy also reaffirmed London’s steadfast support for the collective efforts of the Troika, IGAD, the African Union, and the United Nations in shepherding South Sudan toward inclusive governance and democratic transition.
With deep historical ties to South Sudan’s peace process, from its role in the original Troika formation to development support on the ground, the UK now finds itself in a familiar yet urgent role, encouraging South Sudanese leaders to preserve the hard-won gains of the past six years.
Staunton’s visit comes amid rising tensions over the delayed implementation of the peace agreement and increased concern over restricted political space. Civil society organizations warn that the continued detention of key leaders risks derailing public trust and jeopardizing national reconciliation.
By leveraging its diplomatic history and global platform, the UK signals that the stakes are too high for silence, that peace in South Sudan must be anchored in political freedom and genuine dialogue.
