Violent clashes have surged, affecting civilians, and on Wednesday night, First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest.

Guterres is urging South Sudan’s political leaders to honor peace agreements and maintain stability.

He wants the leaders to fully restore the unity government and rigorously honor their commitments to the peace agreement, aiming for peaceful, free, and fair elections by December 2026.

The African Union is collaborating with the U.N. to resolve the issue, aiding initiatives such as the deployment of the panel of the Wise and the efforts of Kenya’s President Ruto’s Special Envoy.

Addressing South Sudan’s leaders, Guterres pleaded for the immediate end of hostilities and prioritization of the country’s people.

President Salva Kiir and detained First Vice President Riek Machar, both historical figures in South Sudan’s independence from Sudan in 2011, are at odds despite working together.

This conflict has intensified over time as Machar awaits his chance to become president and Kiir remains in power.