South Sudan imposed a nighttime curfew after protests turned violent, resulting in three deaths amidst ongoing turmoil linked to Sudan’s civil war. Police intervened to prevent looting of Sudanese businesses and protect essential food markets. President Kiir called for restraint, emphasizing the duty to safeguard Sudanese refugees. The UN urged for tranquility and compassion towards those fleeing conflict in Sudan, which has caused significant unrest in South Sudan.
In response to anti-Sudanese unrest that led to violence and looting, South Sudanese police announced a nighttime curfew starting at 6:00 PM. This decision followed protests in the capital, Juba, where three fatalities occurred after South Sudanese citizens were reportedly killed in Sudan amid ongoing civil conflict. With the turbulent backdrop of a civil war that has left tens of thousands dead since April 2023, tensions escalated as a multitude protested, drawing considerable police intervention to quell the situation and defend local businesses. Police confirmed they resorted to warning shots to disperse crowds participating in the looting of Sudanese establishments across Juba and other towns, including Bor, Aweil, and Wau.
Although calm returned by Friday, law enforcement maintained a robust presence in the capital to deter any further violence, particularly around essential food markets. Police Chief Abraham Manyuat emphasized that significant looting could disrupt food supplies for citizens, posing dire consequences. The United Nations mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged for a restoration of peace and called for the nation to continue demonstrating kindness towards Sudanese refugees escaping the conflict in their homeland.
South Sudan, the youngest nation globally, has faced persistent instability since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011. The present circumstances are further complicated by extreme poverty and severe flooding, along with a surge of refugees fleeing the violence in Sudan. A spokesperson from South Sudan’s army revealed the organization has taken measures to protect over 600 Sudanese individuals who sought safety from hostile protests.
President Salva Kiir reiterated calls for restraint and emphasized the need to shield Sudanese refugees from retaliation. He indicated that he would seek accountability from Sudan for any implications surrounding the violence and mentioned that forces were instructed to prevent any form of vigilantism against the Sudanese community in South Sudan. The United Nations human rights chief expressed concerns over escalating dangers to civilians due to ethnic-targeted attacks amid the warfare in Sudan.
The recent unrest in South Sudan is set against a backdrop of ongoing civil conflict in neighboring Sudan, which escalated significantly in April 2023. This conflict has resulted in a staggering number of casualties and the displacement of millions of citizens. Tensions in South Sudan have frequently risen due to these external pressures, often leading to violence against minority groups and foreign nationals. The precarious situation for Sudanese refugees fleeing to South Sudan underscores the broader humanitarian crisis resulting from the war.
The implementation of a curfew in South Sudan following violent anti-Sudanese protests highlights the fragile state of public order in the nation. While authorities have acted swiftly to restore peace and protect vital food supplies, the long-term implications of increasing tensions between South Sudanese citizens and Sudanese refugees remain concerning. It is crucial for the international community to monitor these developments closely and support efforts for stability and humanitarian assistance in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
