AU calls for release of Dr. Machar amid detention threats to peace process

On 2026-05-07, the African Union Peace and Security Council called for the release of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and other political detainees, saying continued detention could worsen South Sudan's fragile peace process. The appeal was directed at the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity and tied to efforts to restore dialogue and full implementation of the peace agreement.