A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid rising tensions between factions. President Salva Kiir emphasized the need for peace, while First Vice President Riek Machar condemned the violence. UNMISS reported casualties from the incident, and calls for accountability and investigations were made by international representatives. The situation remains precarious, with government officials arrested over these tensions.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan as tensions escalate in the nation. President Salva Kiir has emphasized that the country must not revert to war amid conflicts with First Vice President Riek Machar regarding a fragile power-sharing agreement. Additionally, clashes were reported in Upper Nile State.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the helicopter was under fire while attempting to extract South Sudanese army members, resulting in one crew member’s death and two serious injuries. UNMISS stated that a South Sudanese army general and several officers were killed during this operation.
President Kiir called for calm among citizens, asserting, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their hands.” He assured the public that his government would manage the crisis and remain committed to peace.
Despite the conclusion of the civil war in 2018 following an agreement between Kiir and Machar, tensions persist, with Kiir’s side accusing Machar of provoking unrest through the White Army. In response to the attack, Machar’s office denounced the incident as a “barbaric act,” emphasizing the importance of restoring peace and engaging all stakeholders to mitigate violence.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack, labeling it as potentially constituting a war crime under international law. He expressed sorrow for the casualties incurred during the attempted extraction. U.N. Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric has called for an investigation to hold those accountable for this violence.
Further complications arose when the government apprehended several ministers, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Deputy Army Chief General Gabriel Duop Lam, amidst ongoing tensions. The civil conflict continues to result in significant civilian displacement and fatalities.
In summary, the recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the tense situation between government factions and the potential for renewed violence in the region. President Kiir’s assurance of peace, alongside the condemnation of the attack by key figures such as Nicholas Haysom and Riek Machar, reflects the complex political landscape. Continued efforts toward accountability and maintaining peace remain critical as the government navigates escalating crises and public safety concerns.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
