President Kiir calls for calm after a UN helicopter attack in South Sudan, pledging the nation will not return to conflict. With recent violence threatening the fragile power-sharing agreement with Riek Machar, international leaders advocate for dialogue and adherence to the 2018 peace accord amid escalating tensions and military actions.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has urged for calm and assured citizens that the nation will “not go back to war” following an attack on a UN helicopter that resulted in the death of a crew member during a rescue mission. This incident occurred against the backdrop of tensions surrounding a fragile power-sharing agreement with First Vice President Riek Machar, which has been threatened by recent clashes in Upper Nile State.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported they were undertaking an evacuation of South Sudanese soldiers when their helicopter was fired upon, causing severe injuries to two crew members and a fatality. UNMISS indicated that this incident might be classified as a war crime, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
In response to escalating violence, Kiir stated, “Let no one take law into their hands,” emphasizing his government’s commitment to peace. He pointed out that the government will manage the crisis while reiterating their path towards maintaining peace, despite tensions caused by allegations from Kiir’s supporters against Machar’s forces of inciting violence in Nasir County.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, labeling it as “utterly abhorrent” and reaffirmed the potential legality of the actions under international law. The ongoing conflict has raised alarms among diplomats regarding the stability of the 2018 peace agreement, which marked the end of a civil war that claimed an estimated 400,000 lives.
In the wake of the attack, Kiir’s administration has arrested several of Machar’s associates, leading to internal unrest. Despite this, UNMISS is committed to addressing the violence in Upper Nile State, which has significantly impacted civilian safety and resulted in displacements.
Diplomatic calls for unity have emerged as the US, UK, and EU embassies publicly urged South Sudanese leadership to prioritize dialogue and peace over internal politics, advocating for adherence to the 2018 peace agreement and a recommitment to the ceasefire. Analysts believe Kiir’s recent political maneuvers, including the firing of two vice presidents without prior consultation, may further complicate the political landscape and efforts to stabilize the nation.
In summary, President Kiir’s appeal for peace follows the violent attack on a UN helicopter, reflecting ongoing tensions in South Sudan’s political landscape. The fragile power-sharing agreement with Machar is under strain due to increasing violence and recent arrests of Machar’s allies. The international community has called for peaceful dialogue and adherence to the existing peace agreement to avert further deterioration of the situation.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
