South Sudan’s President Kiir has called for calm after a UN helicopter attack that killed a crew member. The attack risks destabilizing the fragile peace established in 2018. Clashes between Kiir’s and Machar’s forces are increasing tensions, with both UN and local leaders urging peaceful resolutions to avoid further conflict.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm amidst tensions following an attack on a UN helicopter that resulted in the death of a crew member. He assured citizens that the country would not revert to war, despite recent clashes between forces loyal to him and First Vice President Riek Machar in the Upper Nile State. Kiir emphasized that his government would manage the crisis and maintain peace.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that their helicopter was attacked during a mission to evacuate members of the South Sudan Army, leading to serious injuries among the crew. The UN suggested that this incident may be classified as a war crime, especially since several South Sudanese officers were also killed during the operation.
Kiir, asserting his commitment to peace, stated, “Let no one take the law into their hands,” and promised that his administration would confront the current challenges. Machar’s office denounced the helicopter attack as a “barbaric act” and stressed that restoring peace in the region is a priority. Machar is engaging stakeholders to mitigate further conflict.
UNMISS Head Nicholas Haysom condemned the attack, labeling it as abhorrent and potentially a war crime under international law. Furthermore, UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric called for an investigation into the incident to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Tensions have escalated in the region with reports of recent attacks on a government garrison, leading to arrests of several of Machar’s allies, including key ministers. The continuing violence has resulted in civilian casualties and displacement, raising alarm among diplomats regarding the stability of the 2018 peace agreement.
Analysts have pointed to the political maneuvers by Kiir, who recently dismissed two vice presidents without broader consultation, as motives to consolidate power. This has prompted concerns about resurgent conflicts, with warnings from experts like Alan Boswell of the International Crisis Group, who fears South Sudan is heading toward full-scale war. A group of Western embassies has urged the leaders to prioritize peaceful dialogue to stave off additional violence and loss of life.
President Salva Kiir’s appeal for calm comes as South Sudan faces rising tensions due to a recent attack on a UN helicopter and clashes between rival forces. The stability of the 2018 peace agreement is jeopardized by ongoing violence, government arrests, and political maneuvers that threaten to escalate conflict further. Diplomatic efforts to restore peace are critical to prevent a return to widespread warfare.
Original Source: punchng.com
