South Sudan President Salva Kiir has called for calm after a UN helicopter was attacked, resulting in one fatality. This incident underscores tensions within the fragile power-sharing agreement with First Vice President Riek Machar. UNMISS condemned the attack, highlighting potential war crime implications, while Kiir assured citizens the nation will not revert to war. International diplomats stress the need for peaceful dialogue to uphold the 2018 peace agreement.
President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has called for calm following an attack on a UN helicopter during a rescue mission that resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. This incident highlights the precarious situation stemming from the fragile power-sharing agreement with First Vice President Riek Machar, which is currently threatened by ongoing clashes in Upper Nile State.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the helicopter was targeted while it was attempting to extract South Sudanese army members from the conflict area. In this operation, a South Sudanese army general and other officers lost their lives, raising concerns that the attack may be classified as a war crime.
In his address, President Kiir reassured citizens that the government would not allow the country to descend into another war, stating, “I have said it repeatedly that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take law into their hands.” He emphasized that his administration would maintain a focus on peace during this crisis.
South Sudan, notable for being the world’s youngest nation, endeavored to conclude a five-year civil war in 2018 with a power-sharing arrangement between Kiir and Machar. Recently, however, Kiir’s allies have accused Machar’s forces of instigating conflict in the Nasir County area.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack on UN personnel as “utterly abhorrent” and noted its potential classification as a war crime under international law, expressing regret for the loss of life during the ill-fated rescue attempt.
The conflict escalated on Tuesday when rebels overtook a government garrison in the region, according to the information minister. In response, Kiir’s government executed multiple arrests of Machar’s associates, although some were later released.
UNMISS indicated that their evacuation efforts aimed to mitigate violence and displacement in Nasir County. Concerns have intensified surrounding the stability of the 2018 peace agreement, which was pivotal in determining the course of the nation following widespread violence that claimed approximately 400,000 lives.
In a joint statement, several Western and regional diplomats urged Juba’s leaders to prioritize peaceful dialogue and the interests of the South Sudanese populace. UNMISS further implored all parties to uphold the ceasefire and maintain the integrity of the peace agreement, emphasizing that recent political actions by Kiir have been viewed by analysts as efforts to solidify power and diminish Machar’s influence.
The appeal by President Kiir for calm amid rising tensions reflects the ongoing instability within South Sudan following a UN helicopter attack, indicative of broader power struggles. The international community, alongside UNMISS, emphasizes the importance of adhering to the peace framework established in 2018. The situation remains delicate as both sides navigate the complex landscape of power-sharing, and continued dialogue is essential for maintaining peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
