The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warns of escalating violence and political instability threatening the Revitalized Peace Agreement. With armed confrontations and human rights abuses on the rise, the Commission calls on leaders to focus on peace and democracy, reminding them of their obligations under the agreement. The South Sudanese populace is in dire need of peace and looks to international partners for help.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has raised alarms over escalating violence in Upper Nile State and political instability in Juba, jeopardizing the Revitalized Peace Agreement and worsening conditions for civilians. Recent armed confrontations, including an attack on a UN aircraft, have resulted in fatalities and are deemed war crimes stemming from political mismanagement, including delays in military unification and targeted dismissals of opposition figures.
Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, emphasized that South Sudan needs to uphold the peace agreement and strengthen democratic institutions instead of regressing into past conflicts. She warned that the current state could erase years of progress and urged leaders to prioritize the peace process and human rights of citizens.
Commissioner Barney Afako echoed these sentiments, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement affecting the South Sudanese population. He called for a cessation of power struggles and a focus on achieving peace and stability for South Sudan.
The Commission reminded all parties involved in the Revitalized Agreement of their obligations to promote human rights and complete transitional processes, which include crucial reforms and the establishment of mechanisms to address the roots of conflict and human rights violations.
Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández warned that failure to act responsibly would lead South Sudan back into chaos. He stressed that conflict resolution in Upper Nile should be handled through dialogue rather than military action, to prevent further destabilization of the nation and the region.
The South Sudanese people are desperate for peace and are looking to regional and international partners to engage with their leaders, de-escalate violence, and ensure the implementation of the ceasefire and transition.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, formed in March 2016, operates as an independent body, reaffirmed annually, with a team of Commissioners who work independently, supported by a Juba-based Secretariat.
In conclusion, the UN Commission on Human Rights highlights a critical juncture for South Sudan, urging leaders to avert further conflict and uphold the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The escalation of violence and political strife poses significant risks to the nation’s stability and democratic aspirations. The international community’s role is crucial in facilitating dialogue and supporting peace efforts to prevent a regression into conflict.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
