Recent protests in South Sudan against Sudanese nationals have resulted in 12 additional deaths amid violent clashes. Demonstrations began following reports of South Sudanese casualties in Sudan’s Al-Jazeera state. A police curfew and increased security measures have been implemented to address the unrest. South Sudan’s President has urged calm, while tensions remain high due to the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan.
In South Sudan, authorities have reported an additional 12 fatalities amid ongoing protests against Sudanese nationals. These protests began following news of 29 South Sudanese deaths due to recent conflicts in Sudan’s Al-Jazeera state. Subsequently, demonstrators looted businesses owned by Sudanese individuals in the capital city, Juba. Police intervened with live ammunition, resulting in at least three deaths and several injuries among protestors.
On Friday, security forces confirmed nine deaths, including two South Sudanese and seven Sudanese, tied to the protests in Aweil. In an effort to restore order, a curfew was instituted overnight as protests spilled into other regions. Police spokesman John Kassara assured that the security situation had stabilized across the country after hours of unrest.
Despite a visible police presence in Juba on Saturday evening, businesses owned by Sudanese citizens remained shut. South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has urged the public to maintain calm during these tumultuous times. Moreover, over 600 Sudanese individuals sought refuge at army headquarters for their safety following the unrest, with police providing safe harbor to others in Central Equatoria.
The turmoil follows a mass exodus of Sudanese seeking refuge in South Sudan, whose independence from Sudan in 2011 has since led to persistent instability. The current crisis in Sudan, involving intense conflict between the national army and the Rapid Support Forces militia, has resulted in a staggering number of casualties and displacements. Since April 2023, the violent conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and led to millions being uprooted from their homes.
South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, has been plagued by instability and violence, including civil wars. Tensions continue as the conflict in Sudan reignited in April 2023, with the official army clashing against the Rapid Support Forces militia. This ongoing conflict has created a humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and widespread famine affecting thousands of lives, driving many to seek refuge in neighboring South Sudan.
The recent protests in South Sudan illustrate the heightened tensions and safety concerns surrounding Sudanese nationals amidst ongoing conflict in their home country. Security responses have been met with violence, resulting in tragic fatalities. With calls for restraint from leadership, the hope remains for a peaceful resolution, emphasizing the need for stability and protection for vulnerable populations, especially during such crises.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
