Heavy fighting in Nasir, Upper Nile State, forced residents to flee, with government forces accused of instigating violence against civilians. The clashes erupted during market hours and disrupted a meeting with UNMISS. Calls for investigation and dialogue have intensified in light of recurring tensions between the military and local inhabitants.
Heavy clashes have erupted in Nasir, Upper Nile State, pitting government forces against local residents. Starting Friday afternoon, the violent confrontations led to the town being largely vacated by its population. Nasir County Commissioner Gatluak Lew Thiep confirmed the tense situation, indicating that local youth maintained control while the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) retreated to their barracks.
Commissioner Thiep accused the SSPDF of initiating violence against civilians during a market attack at 2 PM, which triggered intense fighting. The situation escalated during a meeting with a UNMISS delegation, which was forced to relocate for safety. He suggested that the attack could have been premeditated, with intentions to prevent any witnesses from observing.
The SSPDF spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Kong, noted that he was still in the process of gathering more information regarding the fighting. Meanwhile, civil society activist Ter Manyang Gatwech criticized the violence and called for investigation by ceasefire monitors.
Tensions between the army and the local populace have historically been problematic, with previous clashes indicating a persistent conflict. Last year, Upper Nile State Governor James Odhok Oyai highlighted a “deadlock” in relations and urged for dialogue to address these issues.
The fighting in Nasir underscores ongoing tensions between government forces and local civilians, with accusations of premeditated violence against the SSPDF. The situation has drawn condemnation from civil society and emphasizes the need for a resolution to prevent future conflicts and foster better relations between the military and the community.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
