A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid increasing tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The incident resulted in a crew member’s death and injuries to others, reflecting growing instability following a civil war that ended in 2018. Kiir called for calm and peace, while investigations into the attack are underway, involving arrests of several government officials.
On Friday, a United Nations (UN) helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid rising tensions within the nation. President Salva Kiir emphasized that South Sudan could not afford to return to conflict, despite escalating disagreements with First Vice President Riek Machar over a fragile power-sharing agreement. Reports surfaced of clashes in Upper Nile State, reflecting the country’s precarious stability.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) disclosed that the helicopter was targeted during an operation to evacuate South Sudanese army members, resulting in the death of one crew member and serious injuries to two others. Additionally, several officers, including a South Sudanese army general, were confirmed dead in this ill-fated mission. President Kiir called for calm, asserting, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their hands.”
The civil war in South Sudan concluded in 2018 following an agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. However, tensions have recently escalated, with accusations that Machar is using the White Army to heighten conflict. Machar’s office condemned the “barbaric act” in response to the attack on the UN helicopter, asserting that peace restoration in the region remains their primary concern.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, described the assault on their personnel as “utterly abhorrent” and a potential war crime under international law. Furthermore, he expressed regret over the loss of lives during the attempted extraction. UN Secretary-General spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, called for a thorough investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the attack. In response to the tensions, the government detained multiple officials, including the Petroleum Minister and the Deputy Army Chief.
In summary, the recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the volatile climate as tensions rise between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. This incident has led to fatalities among both UN personnel and the South Sudanese army. Despite these challenges, President Kiir reassured citizens of his government’s commitment to peace, as investigations and arrests are underway to address the escalating situation. The need for maintaining stability and ensuring accountability is paramount in preventing further violence in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
