IGAD diplomats have expressed grave concerns over rising violence in Nasir County, South Sudan, which has resulted in over 20 deaths and many displacements. They urged all parties to cease hostilities to protect the peace process and prevent worsening humanitarian conditions.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has raised alarm over escalating armed violence in Nasir County, South Sudan, expressing concerns that the ongoing conflicts could jeopardize the peace process. Diplomats from IGAD member states, including Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Uganda, based in Juba, reported that clashes have resulted in over 20 fatalities and significant displacement among the local population.
The recent clashes began in February between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and armed civilian factions. Tensions further heightened after the government indicated plans to dispatch new forces to Nasir County, which raised fears among residents of possible civilian targeting or disarmament campaigns.
The conflict has seen more than 20 deaths and numerous injuries surrounding Nasir town, which lies near the South Sudan-Ethiopia border. The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism indicated a marked deterioration in security within Upper Nile State, attributing it to recent hostilities.
IGAD officials warned that the unrest in Nasir County undermines progress made under the revived peace agreement and worsens the already grave humanitarian crisis. They emphasized, “We call upon all parties and their affiliate groups to immediately cease hostilities and exercise maximum restraint” to ensure the sustained implementation of the peace agreement and encourage ongoing dialogues.
In summary, the IGAD has expressed serious concerns regarding the violent conflicts in Nasir County, which threaten the stability of South Sudan’s peace efforts. The escalation of hostilities raises fears among locals about potential military actions against civilians. The urgency of a ceasefire and adherence to peace agreements is crucial for the region’s security and humanitarian situation.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
