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South Sudan’s Military Sets Deadline for Voluntary Disarmament in Conflict Zones

South Sudan’s military demands armed youth in Warrap State and Mayom County to voluntarily disarm within a week or face forceful measures. This directive follows President Salva Kiir’s six-month state of emergency aimed at tackling rising violence. The military has mobilized forces in anticipation.

In a bold move to clamp down on escalating violence, South Sudan’s military has set a one-week deadline for armed youth in conflict regions to disarm. Major General Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), announced this ultimatum on Monday. The SSPDF is actively deploying troops in Warrap State and Mayom County of Unity State, as tensions continue to rise amid a declared state of emergency.

President Salva Kiir recently instituted a six-month state of emergency in these areas to combat increasing communal clashes. The presidential decree, as stated by the government’s South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation, will permit the deployment of additional security forces to restore stability. This decree is crucial in establishing a more secure environment, the military asserts.

Koang emphasized that the SSPDF has initiated both voluntary and obligatory disarmament measures. Youth in the affected areas are encouraged to peacefully surrender their weapons within the week. “All armed youth in Warrap State and Mayom County Unity State are given a grace period of one week to voluntarily start handing over their weapons to civilian authorities,” stated Koang, indicating that soldiers are prepared to assist in this process. If individuals fail to comply by the end of the deadline, they risk facing forceful disarmament interventions.

The vital message conveyed is one of urgency: adherence to this disarmament is essential for community safety. General Ruai warned that residents who resist the directive will face serious consequences. “Upon the elapse of the one week grace period, SSPDF forces will launch coordinated forceful disarmament exercises,” he added. The SSPDF is not only taking charge of the disarmament process but is urging community leaders to play a role in mediating a peaceful transition for local youth.

Despite the potential for conflict, the military maintains that cooperation from the youth can assist in stabilizing the situation. As community leaders are encouraged to advocate for compliance, the risk remains that any hesitancy to disarm might prolong the strife within these communities. The situation continues to evolve, with residents and military alike on alert in anticipation of how the coming week unfolds.

In summary, South Sudan’s military is pursuing a disarmament initiative in areas plagued by violence, setting a one-week deadline for voluntary compliance. This move follows a state of emergency declaration and aims to quell ongoing conflicts. With a potential for force if compliance is not met, the focus remains on community cooperation to ensure peace and stability. Leaders are being called to help encourage youth to surrender their weapons peacefully to avert the escalation of conflict.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke

Lila Chaudhury

Lila Chaudhury is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in international reporting. Born and raised in Mumbai, she obtained her degree in Journalism from the University of Delhi. Her career began at a local newspaper where she quickly developed a reputation for her incisive analysis and compelling storytelling. Lila has worked with various global news organizations and has reported from conflict zones and emerging democracies, earning accolades for her brave coverage and dedication to truth.

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