Security Outlook in the Republic of South Sudan (Research Paper Sample)

Security Outlook in the Republic of South Sudan
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Security Outlook in the Republic of South Sudan
Background Information
South Sudan is a state entity which is also the latest addition to Africa’s geographical and political landscape. Its formation materialized in 2011 after many years of struggle for self rule. Its administrative team, comprising the president and other elected leaders operate from juba, which is its capital and largest urban establishment in terms of size and population (Breidlid 2010). South Sudan enjoys good relations with its neighbours who include the Sudan, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Central African Republic. The Republic of South Sudan is a member of strategic organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU).it is also enlisted in the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). In terms of security, the Republic of South Sudan continues to experience civil conflict that emanates from social and economic disparities that exist between members of the largest ethnic groups. It is important to note that the ethnic and social composition of the youngest African state is crucial in understanding and taking care of security issues that face it (Breidlid 2010).
In 2011, the country conducted a referendum vote that sought to determine the peoples will in regard to the imminent establishment of the South Sudanese state. People voted overwhelmingly for the establishment of the South Sudanese state. The plebiscite paved way for a treacherous journey in making of an independent state (Arnold 2012). There have been numerous disputes between the South Sudan and the republic of Sudan. The most prominent issue that causes contention is the access to oil reserves, most of which lie in the South Sudanese jurisdiction. It has been difficult for the two states to devise a favourable formula with regard to sharing and distribution of revenue from oil and other naturally occurring resources (Arnold 2012). It is important to note that this issue has been a key trigger for negative security issues in the country. Another threat to security is the issue of civil strife in the country. This has led to emergence of armed groups that seek to entrench the desires of ethnic masters. The conflict involving various ethnic groups in South Sudan emanates from the failure to agree on sharing arable land, grazing fields, and strategic resources such as teak (Arnold 2012).
In fact, ethnic strife is a major concern for the country because it threatens to decimate the gains that have been achieved through the struggle for independence. Another prominent threat to security and stability in South Sudan is the struggle for political dominance and control. In 2013, President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar triggered a power contest that led to the ongoing civil war in the country (Leonardi 2013). The president argued that his deputy and other disgruntled government were plotting a ouster of his legitimately elected government. This attempt on the government led to the arrest of Dr Machar and his fellow conspirators. This development has led to a protracted civil war that has since taken an ethnic inclination. Ethnic leaders have accused each other of political, social, and economic exclusion. The current civil war has become a Nuer-Dinka affair that has overshadowed other ethnic groupings in the country. Nuer and Dinka are the two largest ethnic groups in terms of population and socio-economic influence (Leonardi 2013).
It is important to contextualize the issue of security in the republic of South Sudan. Most undertakings in the realm of security revolve around the fulfilment of government’s mandate to its citizens. The government has a duty and responsibility to protect its citizens against all forms of aggression, both internal and external. In this context, the citizens of South Sudan are the key beneficiaries of state initiatives that seek to bolster security in its jurisdiction. Therefore, all security programmes should target citizens with a view to create a favourable environment for progress and harmonious coexistence (Leonardi 2013).
Security Challenges in South Sudan
The above information offers a backdrop against which to analyze the security situation in South Sudan. It highlights the nature and scope of security concerns in the youngest African state that is yet to exploit its full potential in terms of resources and human resource (Wondu 2011). South Sudan is a democratic state that not only believes in the rule of law but also provision of security and other liberties that affect its citizens. Through its state machinery, the government strives to guarantee harmonious coexistence among its citizens. The country has sufficient frameworks and institutional structures that target provision of adequate security to its citizens (Wondu 2011). In fact, provision of security is enshrined in the constitution as a basic right of citizens and the responsibility of those in political power. However, the security narrative in South Sudan is not appealing due to a multiplicity of issues and challenges that make it difficult for the government to fulfil its mandate. Most of these issues are both internal and external. Internal factors include ethnic strife and struggle for political power while external factors include territorial disputes with neighbours and struggle for resources (Bruce 2012).
Another key security challenge for the government is rationalization of its public service. There have been concerns, and rightly so, that the public service is dominated by the president’s tribesmen. This is a critical issue for the stability of this country because most of its people feel left out in sharing of resources. Such concerns and issues are breeding ground for ethnic strife and animosity (Dagne 2012). The disgruntled ethnic groupings could be forced to take arms and demand their rightful share in terms of resource allocation. There is need for the government to adopt measures that will serve as incentives for proper distribution of jobs in the public service. The issue of representation in the public is compounded by the reality that most citizens were not able to attend school owing to the civil strife that was witnessed in the country (Dagne 2012). After gaining its independence, the country had difficulty finding qualified people to fill key positions in government and public service. In fact, the government appealed enticed exiled citizens to return home and assist in structuring a strong and secure public service force. Due to this dilemma, some key positions were filled by foreigners who were expected to import ideas and knowledge in strategic areas such as security, governance, and information communication technology. Although this idea was initially well-intended, it has led to issues that could destabilize the nation if not dealt with accordingly (Copnall 2014).
Lack of adequate resources is another challenge that the country faces in terms of security. Provision of security is an expensive affair that often requires huge input through purchase of equipment and hiring of the relevant human resource. South Sudan lacks the wherewithal to support security machinery that is adequate for realization of security in the country (Beswick 2004). Most of the resources at its disposal are not sufficient for this purpose. However, this problem is compounded by the inability of the government to consolidate a master plan for collection of taxes. In the absence of revenue, it is impossible for the government to provide adequate security. Lack of goodwill from the people is also a challenge with regard to provision of security. It is important for the citizens to appreciate their role in sustenance of security at all times. Civil participation is an important aspect in security because they are integral in offering information that could lead to action by the government (Guarak 2011).
Government Response to Security Challenges
Since formation of the current government in South Sudan, security has remained top in its agenda. The government has continually engaged in efforts that gear towards realization of security measures that guarantee harmonious coexistence and serenity. However, the government is faring well because the nation is still in its formative stages. In light of the aforementioned challenges, the government has instituted measures that seek to improve the security situation in the country (Akongdit 2013). One such response involves programmes that aim at enhancing harmony and integration. Through its relevant organs, the government is reaching out to citizens in a bid to enlighten them on the need for peace and harmony. This strategy is meant to reduce instances where citizens view each other with suspicion on account of ethnic and tribal orientation. The government is also rolling out programmes to support economic empowerment through provision of opportunities across the board. If successful, both strategies will play an important role in reducing instances and rate of insecurity (Akongdit 2013).
The government is also keen on rehabilitating young men who spent most of their childhood as soldiers during the struggle for independence. Most of these young soldiers are disillusioned due to lack of...