Destroying itself from within

摘要

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 Ma-char, 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.