Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, has urged for restraint and dialogue to address rising tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County. He expressed concern over clashes that threaten the Revitalised Agreement. IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to assess the situation and ensure the implementation of peace measures.
Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has urged for restraint and dialogue to mitigate the escalating tensions in South Sudan. In a statement, he expressed significant concern regarding the ongoing armed clashes in Nasir County, which threaten the progress made under the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and endanger the peace within the nation.
Gebeyehu emphasized the necessity for all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint, reaffirm their commitments to the R-ARCSS, and prioritize dialogue and reconciliation as sustainable avenues for peace. He asserted that ensuring the protection of civilians and maintaining regional stability are crucial priorities at this time.
In light of these escalating tensions, IGAD has decided to send a high-level delegation to South Sudan to assess the current situation and collaborate with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity on restoring calm and advancing the peace process. As the guarantor of the revitalized peace accord, IGAD reconfirms its dedication to supporting the complete implementation of the agreement.
Recent clashes erupted in mid-February between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups, exacerbating tensions after the government announced plans for troop rotation in the Nasir County area, leading to both fatalities and injuries in the region. This situation necessitates urgent attention to avoid further destabilization.
In conclusion, the IGAD Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, has called for immediate action through dialogue and restraint to address the rising tensions in South Sudan. The ongoing conflicts jeopardize peace efforts established under the R-ARCSS and highlight the importance of safeguarding civilians and enhancing regional stability. IGAD’s commitment to supporting the peace agreement reaffirms the need for collaborative efforts to restore calm in South Sudan.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
