South Sudan: Destroying itself from within

Not yet much sign of that ceasefire

THE world’s youngest independent country is criss-crossed with battle lines. Following a bloody rupture in mid-December between President Salva Kiir and his former vice-president, Riek Machar, violence has spread across much of South Sudan. Forces loyal to Mr Machar have seized control of parts of Jonglei and all of oil-rich Unity state as well as chunks of Upper Nile, the other main oil-producing state. Governments in the region—mainly those of Ethiopia, Uganda and Kenya—are striving to mediate, so far without success. A ceasefire brokered by the governments of neighbouring countries on December 31st in Ethiopia has yet to be given a starting date.Adding to fears of further mayhem, the “white army”, so called because its Lou Nuer tribesmen daub themselves in white ash, is also on the march. Columns several thousand strong are reported to be converging from the eastern reaches of the bush in the vast Jonglei state towards Bor, its capital, to join battle against government forces. As The Economist went to press, the rebels claimed to control the city, which is only a few hours’...



From The Economist: Middle East and Africa