Recent clashes in South Sudan have led to the displacement of over 50,000 people since February, raising concerns about a potential return to civil conflict. The violence disrupts humanitarian efforts, including treatment for cholera amid funding cuts. The 2018 peace agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar is at risk as tensions escalate, notably involving the White Army militia.
Clashes between rival factions in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of over 50,000 individuals since February, as reported by a U.N. agency. The escalating tensions, particularly in the Upper Nile State, involve forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. This unrest poses a significant risk to the fragile peace-sharing agreement established between the two leaders.
Anita Kiki Gbeho of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted that the ongoing violence exacerbates the vulnerabilities of local communities, hindering essential humanitarian services. Recently, an airstrike conducted by the South Sudanese government in Nasir County led to the tragic loss of at least 20 lives, including children.
OCHA reports that approximately 10,000 of those displaced have sought refuge in Ethiopia, and 23 humanitarian workers were compelled to abandon their operations. The closure of a cholera treatment unit in Nasir further complicates the dire situation.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan, warned that the country is precariously positioned on the brink of renewed civil war, potentially negating years of peacebuilding efforts. He urged all stakeholders to de-escalate tensions to avert a disaster similar to that seen in neighboring Sudan.
Healthcare conditions have deteriorated, with an alarming report from Doctors Without Borders indicating 1,300 cholera cases in Akobo County. Relief operations face severe challenges due to reduced USAID funding. Medical staff at the Renk Transit Centre expressed deep concern over insufficient supplies and staffing, highlighting a dire lack of hope for refugees and returnees, which is indicative of the larger humanitarian crisis.
The violent clashes also jeopardize the 2018 peace agreement between Kiir and Machar, which was established to resolve a five-year civil conflict that claimed around 400,000 lives. Accusations have been made by Kiir’s supporters against Machar’s forces for stirring unrest in Nasir, specifically through collaboration with the White Army, a group associated with Machar’s Nuer ethnic community. Recent events included a significant offensive by approximately 6,000 White Army fighters, culminating in tragic outcomes during an attempted U.N. rescue operation.
The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has resulted in significant displacement and humanitarian crises, threatening the fragile peace agreement between political leaders. With tens of thousands displaced and essential services jeopardized, urgent measures must be taken to avoid further deterioration of the situation. The international community’s response is crucial to averting another devastating civil conflict.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
