Airstrikes struck Akobo, South Sudan, heightening fears of civil war amid escalating tensions between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. Uganda deployed forces in South Sudan, accused of supporting the SSPDF. Local officials reported targeted strikes on vehicles without casualties but extensive panic. International groups, including western embassies, are advocating for peace talks to prevent further violence.
Residents of Akobo, located in Jonglei State, South Sudan, experienced panic following airstrikes on the outskirts of the town on Tuesday afternoon. This incident heightened concerns over a potential return to civil war, exacerbated by increasing tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
In response to the rising instability, Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan. The Ugandan military chief confirmed the deployment intended to “secure” Juba, the capital city. The Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has been accused of conducting airstrikes to support the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF).
Akobo County Commissioner Puok Nyang Tutjiek reported that the strikes targeted two vehicles transporting goods and passengers on a road linking Walgak to Akobo at approximately 12:45 PM. The attacks contradicted claims that the strikes aimed to target a vehicle alleged to be transporting SPLA-IO Spy Chief Gen. Yiey Dak, who recently fled Juba amid political turmoil.
According to Commissioner Tutjiek, individuals in the vehicles, including children, scattered into nearby bushes, but the vehicles ultimately reached their destination. He indicated there were no reported casualties, though many passengers remain unaccounted for after fleeing the scene. The airstrikes led to market closures and forced residents to seek safety.
The Commissioner stated that local authorities are requesting clarification from Juba regarding the motive behind the airstrikes. Concerns from civil society and the international community have escalated following this incident, alongside additional airstrikes in the Upper Nile region.
Ter Manyang, Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), termed the airstrikes a “dangerous escalation” and called for international intervention. He urged the African Union (AU) and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) observers to facilitate dialogue between President Kiir and Dr. Machar to avert further violence.
In a coordinated response, a group of western embassies in Juba expressed their wish for direct meetings among President Kiir, Dr. Machar, and other leaders to restore peace, indicating their readiness to facilitate the talks. A press statement from these embassies condemned the violence in the Upper Nile region, including ongoing aerial attacks in Nasir County and the reported civilian casualties involved.
The recent airstrikes in Akobo signal heightened tensions in South Sudan, raising fears of renewed civil conflict. The involvement of Ugandan forces and international calls for dialogue reflect the urgent need for conflict resolution. Local authorities are seeking answers from the national government regarding the motives behind the strikes. The coordinated efforts by western embassies emphasize the criticality of direct talks between South Sudan’s leaders to restore peace and stability.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
