The UN has warned that South Sudan is facing “alarming regression” due to recent clashes threatening peace progress. These confrontations jeopardize the fragile power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and First Vice President Machar. The violence has prompted calls from both the UN and African Union for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a renewed commitment to the peace process.
The United Nations has expressed grave concern over South Sudan’s current state, describing it as experiencing “alarming regression” due to recent clashes in the northeast that jeopardize years of peacebuilding efforts. The fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is under threat from violence between their respective forces in Upper Nile State.
A recent incident involving a United Nations helicopter, which was ambushed during a rescue mission for soldiers, resulted in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) confirmed that an army general was also killed in this operation, further heightening fears of instability in a nation already plagued by conflict.
In response to the violence, President Kiir called for calm and assured the public of his commitment to preventing a return to warfare. However, Yasmin Sooka, chair of the UN commission, cautioned that the country is on the brink of erasing years of progress towards peace. She emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize the peace process and uphold the human rights of South Sudanese citizens.
The power-sharing agreement established in 2018, which ended a five-year civil war, is now threatened, especially as Kiir’s supporters allege that Machar’s forces are inciting violence in Upper Nile County. Commissioner Barney Afako remarked on the parallels to past power struggles that have historically devastated South Sudan and called for an end to the cycle of violence.
The African Union (AU) echoed these sentiments, condemning the escalation of violence and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for renewed efforts towards stabilizing South Sudan and safeguarding its hard-earned peace.
South Sudan is facing a critical juncture, with recent violence posing a significant threat to the fragile peace established by the 2018 power-sharing agreement. The United Nations and African Union have voiced strong condemnation of the current hostilities, highlighting the need for leadership and commitment to peace. It is imperative that South Sudan’s leaders focus on upholding human rights and facilitating a stable transition towards democracy, rather than exacerbating divisions that lead to further conflict.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
