South Sudan’s President Kiir calls for restraint after protests against Sudan turned violent in Juba. Demonstrators looted Sudanese shops in response to alleged deaths of South Sudanese in Sudan. Kiir urged calm, emphasizing protection for those fleeing violence as his country faces serious instability driven by ongoing conflict and extreme poverty.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm following an anti-Sudanese demonstration in Juba that turned violent. Protesters vandalized Sudanese-owned businesses in response to the alleged deaths of 29 South Sudanese citizens in Wad Madani, Sudan. Police resorted to firing warning shots to disperse the crowd amid the unrest.
The reported fatalities in Wad Madani, which the AFP has not independently verified, have heightened tensions as South Sudan grapples with ongoing issues such as instability, violence, and extreme poverty. The situation is worsened by severe flooding and a surge of refugees from the ongoing war in Sudan.
In a statement, Kiir emphasized the importance of maintaining composure, stating, “We must not allow anger to cloud our judgment, and individuals fleeing violence deserve protection.” He urged citizens to show restraint and allow both the South Sudan and Sudan governments to resolve the issue.
Since April 2023, conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in extensive casualties and displacement. This clash has had a devastating impact, with accusations against both sides of civilian targeting, while the RSF faces allegations of ethnic cleansing and sexual violence.
Recently, the Sudanese army reclaimed Wad Madani from RSF control. The ongoing war has left millions of people homeless and exposed to famine, highlighting the need for urgent humanitarian intervention. Kiir’s appeal underscores the delicate situation in South Sudan and the imperative for peace amid rising tensions with Sudan.
The article highlights the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, particularly in Juba following a violent demonstration spurred by geopolitical tensions with Sudan. South Sudan, the youngest nation, struggles with the ramifications of its independence from Sudan in 2011. The ongoing conflict in Sudan between the army and the RSF severely impacts South Sudan by exacerbating poverty and displacing populations. The instigation of protests reveals deep-rooted frustrations over violence and humanitarian crises, compounded by the region’s ongoing instability.
President Salva Kiir’s call for restraint amidst the chaos in Juba reflects the significance of maintaining order and upholding the rights of vulnerable populations, especially in light of the humanitarian crises stemming from Sudan’s conflict. The situation underscores ongoing tensions affecting South Sudan, necessitating diplomatic efforts to manage both domestic unrest and cross-border conflicts.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
