Women from South Sudan’s civil society have called upon IGAD leaders to intervene against the threat of a third civil war, expressing grave concerns over ongoing political unrest and its devastating effects on women and children.
The united women of South Sudan, representing various civil society organizations, have urged the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Heads of State during their 43rd extraordinary summit to intervene and prevent an impending third civil war. They expressed “grave concerns” regarding the escalating political unrest in regions such as Western Equatoria, Western Bahr El Ghazal, and Upper Nile States, which has led to significant displacement and loss of life.
Notable organizations, including the South Sudan Women’s Coalition for Peace (SSWCP), Women Bloc of South Sudan, and the Gender Empowerment for South Sudan Organization (GESSO), alongside representatives from the business sector and youth, reiterated their commitment to peace as signatories of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan. They firmly stated, “We categorically reject any return to war. War is neither an option nor a solution to the challenges facing our nation.”
The women highlighted the disproportionate impact of political violence on themselves and children, asserting, “The South Sudanese people, particularly women and children, have endured the devastating consequences of violence for far too long. Today, we bear the economic hardship that has made it incredibly difficult for women to provide for their families and afford basic necessities.”
The IGAD Heads of State from eight member nations convened today under the leadership of Djibouti’s President, Israel Omar Guelleh, to address the critical situation in South Sudan. The summit will specifically focus on the potential full-blown conflict between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar, who leads an armed opposition faction.
In summary, women from various civil society organizations in South Sudan are advocating for intervention by IGAD leaders to halt the looming threat of a third civil war. They have expressed deep concern for the ongoing violence and its harsh effects on women and children, emphasizing the need for peace over conflict. The convening of the IGAD summit serves as a critical platform to address this urgent situation in South Sudan.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
