The UN warns of alarming regression in South Sudan due to recent clashes that jeopardize a fragile peace deal. President Kiir urged calm while UN officials emphasized the need to refocus on the peace process. The African Union condemned the violence, calling for an immediate end to hostilities.
South Sudan is facing significant setbacks, described as “alarming regression” by the UN commission on human rights. Recent clashes in the northeast threaten to reverse advancements in peace achieved over the years. The fragile power-sharing pact between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is jeopardized due to conflicts among their allied forces in Upper Nile State.
An incident involving a UN helicopter occurred during a rescue operation for soldiers in Upper Nile State, resulting in one crew member’s death and two injuries, according to the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Additionally, an army general died in this operation. This incident heightens concerns in a nation already struggling with political instability and violence.
Amid these tensions, President Kiir has called for calm and reaffirmed his commitment to preventing a return to war. Yasmin Sooka, chair of the UN commission, emphasized the need for South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize the peace process, uphold human rights, and facilitate a democratic transition instead of promoting division.
Since ending a five-year civil war with a power-sharing agreement in 2018, South Sudan has been vulnerable to unrest, especially after Kiir’s allies accused Machar’s forces of inciting violence in Nasir County. The local unrest is believed to involve the White Army, comprising armed youths from the same ethnic group as Machar.
UN Commissioner Barney Afako highlighted the dangers of a return to historical power struggles, noting the South Sudanese people’s suffering from severe rights violations, economic mismanagement, and deteriorating security. He stated that the people deserve peace instead of cycles of conflict. Additionally, the African Union condemned the escalating violence and called for an immediate halt to hostilities.
The situation in South Sudan is deteriorating, with recent clashes posing a threat to the fragile peace established in 2018. Key figures from the UN are urging leaders to prioritize peace, human rights, and democratic transition to prevent further conflict. The involvement of ethnic tensions and armed groups complicates the already fragile political landscape, prompting urgent calls from international bodies for a ceasefire.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
