At least 12 people have died in South Sudan amid protests against Sudanese nationals following news of South Sudanese casualties in Sudan. Clashes between protesters and police led to multiple fatalities, prompting a government-imposed curfew. The security situation appears to have stabilized, but tensions remain high with many Sudanese seeking protection.
Recent protests in South Sudan have resulted in the deaths of at least 12 individuals amid rising tensions against Sudanese nationals. These demonstrations were prompted by reports of the deaths of 29 South Sudanese citizens in Sudan’s Al-Jazeera state. In Juba, protesters targeted Sudanese-owned businesses, leading to violent clashes with law enforcement, during which police fired upon the crowd.
In Aweil, violence claimed the lives of nine people, consisting of two South Sudanese and seven Sudanese nationals. In response to the escalating situation, the South Sudanese government imposed a curfew on Friday night and subsequently reported that the security situation had stabilized. Police spokesperson John Kassara noted that conditions had become more serene across the country following the curfew enforcement.
On Saturday evening, Juba’s streets appeared relatively calm under heavy police surveillance, although businesses owned by Sudanese remained closed. South Sudanese President Salva Kiir urged calm as the situation developed. Meanwhile, over 600 Sudanese nationals have sought protection at South Sudan army headquarters, illustrating the ongoing concerns amid the civil conflict in Sudan that began in April 2023, leading to significant casualties and displacements.
The protests in South Sudan stem from a response to violence in Sudan, particularly following reports of mass casualties among South Sudanese citizens. Feelings of anger and frustration have been exacerbated by the broader context of violence in Sudan, prompting many Sudanese individuals to seek refuge in South Sudan. The South Sudanese government’s curfews reflect attempts to control the unrest and maintain public order amidst this upheaval.
In summary, the recent civil unrest in South Sudan has resulted in heightened violence against Sudanese nationals, with multiple fatalities during protests. Despite implementing curfews for stabilization, the underlying tensions remain significant due to the ongoing conflicts in Sudan. The situation requires careful management to prevent further escalation and promote peace and safety for all citizens.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
