After deadly protests against Sudanese nationals in Juba, South Sudan’s police enforced a curfew. The unrest, exacerbated by civilian deaths in Sudan due to military actions, led to looting and violence. The government is taking steps to protect refugees while highlighting the need for calm amid rising tensions.
On Friday, police in South Sudan declared a nighttime curfew following violent protests in the capital, Juba, against Sudanese nationals. The unrest erupted after reports indicated that 29 South Sudanese citizens were killed earlier in the week during clashes in Sudan. The protests were fueled by anger over civilian deaths attributed to Sudan’s army, with increasing violence in the ongoing civil war since April 2023.
The protests resulted in three fatalities and injuries to seven individuals. Authorities struggled to contain the chaos as looting and vandalism occurred in foreign-owned shops and restaurants across Juba and other towns including Bor, Aweil, and Wau. Police fired warning shots to disperse the crowds and restore order, as the atmosphere remained tense with a considerable police presence.
To protect vital markets and prevent further unrest, police chief Abraham Manyuat announced a curfew beginning at 6:00 PM. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding food supplies from potential destruction. The UN mission in South Sudan urged the reinstatement of peace and called for the continued hospitality of citizens towards Sudanese refugees fleeing the violence.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent instability and severe poverty. The situation is exacerbated by extensive flooding and an influx of refugees escaping the conflict in Sudan. An army spokesperson reported that numerous Sudanese individuals had been sheltered from an angry mob seeking revenge for the killings of South Sudanese.
President Salva Kiir appealed for restraint, urging citizens to refrain from acts of vengeance and emphasizing the duty to protect Sudanese refugees. He also requested an investigation into the violence and called for accountability from Sudanese authorities. The UN human rights chief expressed concerns regarding the escalating dangers faced by civilians amid the conflict, noting ethnic-based attacks by militias in Sudan.
The current unrest in South Sudan reflects the underlying tensions resulting from the civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023. This conflict has led to widespread fatalities and displacement, affecting the populations of both countries. The protests in South Sudan were sparked by anger over the deaths of Sudanese citizens, which were reportedly caused by military actions in Sudan, leading to retaliatory sentiments against Sudanese nationals living in South Sudan.
The declaration of a curfew in South Sudan illustrates the serious consequences of the escalating violence from the civil war in neighboring Sudan. Reflecting the interlinked fates of the two nations, the South Sudanese government is undertaking measures to ensure security and protect Sudanese refugees amid rising civil unrest. Continued international support and monitoring will be crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis and promoting stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
