The UN has called on South Sudanese parties to avert conflict by fully implementing the peace agreement and advancing toward democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom warned of a potential civil war and stressed the need for de-escalation of political tensions. The AU is encouraged to mediate dialogue between leaders Kiir and Machar to ensure stability.

The United Nations has urged South Sudan’s parties to prioritize efforts to prevent a relapse into conflict and to fully implement the peace agreement to facilitate the country’s first democratic elections. During a virtual meeting, Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s special representative to South Sudan, expressed concerns about the imminent risk of civil war, which could undermine the peace achieved since the signing of the Revitalized Agreement in 2018.

Haysom emphasized the urgency of de-escalating the current political tensions, noting that the only viable path to peace is through adherence to the Revitalized Agreement. He warned that the peace mechanisms are in jeopardy and that the region urgently needs to avoid another round of conflict, especially following recent escalating violence, such as the takeover of the Nasir barracks by the White Army militia.

The situation has prompted arrests of senior officials from the SPLM/A-IO in Juba, amid rising tensions and rampant hate speech fueled by misinformation. Haysom acknowledged President Salva Kiir’s commitment to maintaining peace but stressed that this can only be achieved through serious efforts to implement the Revitalized Agreement promptly and sincerely.

Haysom further called upon the AU Security Council to facilitate constructive dialogue between President Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, recommending a joint public address to the nation as a demonstration of unity. He also highlighted the need for the release of detained officials to adhere to legal processes and to pursue dialogue as a solution to rising tensions in Nasir rather than escalated military action.

The UN emphasizes the critical importance of dialogue and the full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement to prevent a return to conflict in South Sudan. With escalating tensions and the need for unity among South Sudanese leaders, proactive measures and constructive conversation are necessary to foster peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: english.news.cn