Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, urges restraint and dialogue to mitigate rising tensions in South Sudan’s Nasir County. He expresses concern about the risks to peace and commitment to the Revitalised Agreement. A high-level IGAD delegation will assess the situation and engage with the government to restore calm.
Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has expressed grave concern regarding the escalating tensions and armed confrontations in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County. He emphasized the necessity for restraint and dialogue among all parties involved, as these developments jeopardize the progress made under the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and threaten national peace.
Gebeyehu has urged all factions to reaffirm their commitment to the R-ARCSS, emphasizing that dialogue and reconciliation are essential for sustainable peace. By prioritizing civilian protection and regional stability, South Sudan can work toward de-escalating tensions. He noted the importance of exercising maximum restraint to prevent further conflict and suffering.
In light of the recent clashes, which erupted between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups, IGAD is mobilizing a high-level delegation to assess the situation on-site and engage meaningfully with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity. The aim is to develop strategies that restore calm and further the peace process.
The conflict intensified following plans announced by the government to deploy new forces to Nasir County, causing alarm among local populations. This unrest has led to over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries near the deserted town of Nasir, close to the border with Ethiopia. IGAD remains steadfast in its support for the full implementation of the revitalised peace accord, reaffirming its role as a guarantor of peace in the region.
In summary, the IGAD Executive Secretary has called for immediate restraint and dialogue to address the rising tensions in South Sudan, specifically in Nasir County. As the situation continues to deteriorate, IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to engage with local authorities for measures aimed at restoring peace. The commitment to the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan is crucial for ensuring stability and protecting civilians in the region.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
