The ADC and UNMISS urged all parties in South Sudan’s conflict to engage in dialogue to address security challenges. They urged restraint amid escalating violence, particularly in key regions. The call follows recent airstrikes causing civilian casualties, and growing tensions between governmental leaders were noted. Immediate government action is necessary to prevent conflict escalation.
The African Diplomatic Corps (ADC) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have issued a call for dialogue to address the growing security issues in South Sudan. Specifically, they are urging parties involved in the conflict to engage in mediation as a means to mitigate escalating tensions, particularly in Western Equatoria, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Upper Nile states.
In a joint statement delivered in Juba, the ADC and UNMISS emphasized the need for restraint and de-escalation. They expressed their commitment to protecting the lives and property of civilians affected by the ongoing conflict, urging all factions to avoid actions that could jeopardize civilian safety and security.
The statement followed reports of new airstrikes in the conflict-ridden town of Nasir, located in Upper Nile State. These strikes, reportedly conducted by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and the Ugandan Peoples’ Defense Force, have resulted in civilian casualties. Additionally, there are rising concerns regarding the potential ethnic escalation of the conflict, exacerbated by widespread hate speech and misinformation.
As tensions rise between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In-Opposition announced a temporary withdrawal from key security mechanisms until detained members are released. The ADC and UN mission commended President Kiir’s public pledge to avoid renewed conflict and called on the unity government to take decisive steps to prevent further violence.
In conclusion, the African Diplomatic Corps and UNMISS’s call for dialogue highlights the urgent need for peaceful resolution in South Sudan amidst a backdrop of increasing violence and ethnic tensions. The emphasis on civilian protection and restraint is critical as the nation faces significant security challenges. Immediate actions by the government are necessary to foster stability and avert further deterioration of the situation.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
