Regional and international peace partners are urging South Sudanese leaders to act collectively to de-escalate tensions and prevent a return to civil war. Key figures warn of grave consequences should conflict erupt, emphasizing the need for swift diplomatic action to uphold the Revitalized Agreement of 2018. The government is committed to peace, but concerted efforts are critical to averting catastrophe.
In light of escalating tensions in South Sudan, regional and international peace partners urgently call for cooperative actions from the nation’s leaders to prevent a return to civil war. This appeal was made during a virtual assembly of the African Union Peace and Security Council, emphasizing the immediate necessity for diplomatic engagement to mitigate conflict risks that could severely affect the broader region.
The Special Envoy for South Sudan from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Ambassador Ismail Wais, expressed grave concerns during the meeting. “As we gather today, South Sudan is on the cusp of a full-scale conflict,” he warned, underscoring that the peace maintained for over seven years is now under severe threat. Factors contributing to this volatility include violent clashes and the recent deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, echoed these sentiments, declaring the urgent need for combined intervention to stave off war. He stressed that any conflict in South Sudan would result in unprecedented destruction and suffering, reiterating that the peace mechanisms established after the Revitalized Agreement in 2018 are nearing failure.
Acting Ambassador Boutrus Thok Deng represented the South Sudanese government, attributing recent tensions to a misunderstanding amid military redeployment. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace, referencing President Salva Kiir’s pledge to avoid a return to conflict. The focus now is on ensuring the peace agreement is executed effectively to promote stability.
The Head of UNMISS highlighted the necessity for the Council to encourage parties involved to recommit to peace and address disagreements constructively. Additionally, he advocated for a thoughtful resolution to the conflicts in Nasir without escalating military actions. Haysom posited a stark reminder from Sudan, stating, “We need to look no further than across the northern border to Sudan for a stark reminder of how quickly countries can descend into catastrophic war.”
He concluded by asserting that the only way forward is through complete adherence to the Revitalized Agreement to ensure a transition to Africa’s first democratic elections in South Sudan, emphasizing that this region cannot sustain another conflict.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious, necessitating urgent and collective action from its leaders to avert a return to civil war. Key figures from the regional and international community have urged immediate diplomatic intervention to maintain the peace established through the Revitalized Agreement. Given the potential for devastating consequences, it is imperative that all parties work collaboratively to foster stability and ensure a peaceful political transition.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
