The UN has called on South Sudanese factions to prevent a return to war, implement the peace agreement, and move towards the first democratic elections. Concerns were raised about potential civil conflict due to escalating tensions and recent violence. The UN representative urged all parties to engage in dialogue and adhere to the peace frameworks essential for stability in the country.
The United Nations has urged South Sudanese factions to focus on preventing a return to warfare, ensuring the implementation of the peace agreement, and advancing towards the nation’s inaugural democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s special representative, expressed concerns regarding the likelihood of a civil war resurfacing, which could jeopardize the peace achieved since the Revitalized Agreement of 2018.
Haysom emphasized the critical need for the involved parties to de-escalate current political tensions, warning that the only solution to the prevailing cycle of conflict lies in adhering to the Revitalized Agreement. He highlighted that the ongoing peace process and its frameworks are crucial to restoring stability but are at risk of failing.
South Sudan cannot withstand another conflict, as underscored by recent high tensions following the occupation of the Nasir barracks by the White Army militia. The arrest of several senior officials from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) in Juba and the subsequent flight of others aggravate the situation.
The UN representative noted that air strikes in Nasir have resulted in civilian casualties, exacerbated by rampant hate speech and misinformation that threaten to escalate ethnic conflict. He acknowledged President Salva Kiir’s assurance against returning to war, yet stressed the necessity for all parties to commit to fulfilling the Revitalized Agreement in both intent and implementation.
Haysom called for the African Union (AU) Security Council to facilitate constructive dialogue between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, whilst advocating for the release of detained officials and seeking alternative resolutions to the Nasir tensions. He argued that dialogue is essential to address grievances and rebuild mutual trust among the involved parties and their supporters.
The United Nations has firmly articulated the pressing need for South Sudanese factions to engage in dialogue to prevent a resurgence of conflict. With tensions escalating and the peace process under threat, it remains vital for all parties to recommit to the Revitalized Agreement and seek constructive resolutions. The situation calls for urgent action to maintain stability and promote unity within the nation.
Original Source: english.news.cn
