The European Union has warned South Sudan’s leaders about the deteriorating security situation following recent clashes, urging immediate action to prevent a return to conflict. The situation is exacerbated by rising tensions in Juba, arrests of key allies of Riek Machar, and a UN helicopter attack. EU Ambassador Timo Olkkonen stressed the importance of peace mechanisms and the leaders’ accountability in averting further violence.
The European Union (EU) delegation has issued a serious warning regarding the escalating security situation in South Sudan, urging the country’s leaders to act swiftly to prevent a return to full-scale conflict. This warning follows recent violent incidents in Nasir County, Upper Nile, which threaten the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
Tensions have been rising in Juba and other regions following clashes last Tuesday between an armed group and government forces in Nasir County. These confrontations resulted in the arrest of prominent allies of Riek Machar, including the petroleum minister and a deputy army chief. Accusations from President Kiir’s faction claim that the White Army, a youth militia in Nasir, has links to Machar’s SPLA-IO forces, which Machar’s camp vehemently denies.
In a concerning development, military personnel surrounded Machar’s residence in Juba after the clashes; however, no official reason was provided. Supporters of Machar have cautioned that such actions could threaten the 2018 peace deal that ended a prolonged civil war between the opposing factions loyal to Kiir and Machar.
The situation deteriorated further last Friday when a United Nations helicopter, tasked with evacuating South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldiers, came under fire in Nasir. This attack led to multiple fatalities, including an army commander and a UN crew member, amplifying concerns about security in the region.
During a recent workshop organized by the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), EU Ambassador Timo Olkkonen underscored the imperative for effective peace mechanisms that foster dialogue among the signatory parties of the peace agreement. He remarked, “The recent events… highlight the critical need for mechanisms that uphold peace… and avoid unilateral actions that could further escalate the situation.”
Ambassador Olkkonen acknowledged varying interpretations of recent events in Upper Nile. However, he emphasized that it is the responsibility of South Sudan’s leaders to address these issues and avert further conflict. He stated, “We hope that the responsibility obviously lies with the South Sudan leaders to tackle these issues and also make sure that they don’t lead to further conflict.”
The ambassador further urged peace monitors, such as CTSAMVM, to take a more proactive approach in managing ceasefire violations. He expressed hope that these mechanisms would effectively address the rising tensions.
Underlining the complexities of the ongoing conflicts in Upper Nile and Western Equatoria states, Ambassador Olkkonen reiterated the urgent need for South Sudanese leaders, especially those who endorsed the 2018 peace agreement, to resolve their disputes promptly. The EU remains a pivotal donor to South Sudan, providing vital humanitarian and economic assistance, affirming its commitment to supporting stability in the region.
In conclusion, the European Union has called upon the leaders of South Sudan to act decisively to prevent a resurgence of conflict amid rising tensions and recent violent incidents. The critical need for effective peace mechanisms and the responsibility of the leaders to manage the situation has been emphasized. The EU’s ongoing support for humanitarian and economic initiatives underlines its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
