Special to WorldTribune.com

CAIRO — South Sudan has been hurled into turmoil amid a coup attempt.

The government has acknowledged an attempted military coup in Juba on Dec. 16. Officials said a military faction aligned to former Vice President Riek Machar sought to overthrow President Salva Kiir.

“These attacks continued until this morning,” Kiir said on Dec. 16. “However, I would like to inform you, at the outset, that your government is in full control of the security situation in Juba.”

Machar was dismissed in July 2013 after he announced plans to run for president. Officials said Machar has retained the loyalty of a rival tribe to that of Kiir.

The president has imposed a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in Juba. Kiir said the coup attempt began with an attack on the ruling SPLA headquarters near Juba University.

“Gunshots/artillery fired over the past few hours in several locations in Juba,” the U.S. embassy said. “We urge everyone to take caution at this time.”

Western diplomats said authorities shut down much of Juba in wake of
fighting at two military bases. This included the jamming of cellular phone
networks and the suspension of international flights. South Sudan gained
independence under the auspices of the United Nations in 2011.

“I urge all parties in the fighting to cease hostilities immediately and
exercise restraint,” UN envoy Hilde Johnson said. “I have been in touch
regularly with the key leaders to call for calm.”

  Hilde Johnson, Juba, Riek Machar, S. Sudan fights off coup attempt by ex-vice president, Salva Kiir