South Sudan has lifted a nationwide curfew following riots over alleged killings of its citizens by Sudan’s military. The unrest led to increased tensions in Juba and surrounding areas, prompting government officials to impose the curfew to regain order. As the situation improves, authorities have decided to revoke the curfew, reflecting a return to relative normalcy.
South Sudan has officially revoked the nationwide curfew that was imposed over ten days ago, following violent riots in the capital. These riots were prompted by blatant outrage regarding the alleged killing of South Sudanese citizens by the army and affiliated factions in the neighboring Sudan. This announcement was made by a government spokesperson on Monday.
The unrest in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, and other regions occurred on January 16 and 17, with demonstrators decrying the Sudanese military’s involvement in the tragic events in El Gezira, Sudan. Allegations surfaced that the military and its allies were responsible for ethnic-based assaults against civilians accused of supporting the rebel faction known as the Rapid Support Forces.
In a notable statement, police spokesperson John Kassara Koang Nhial conveyed, “This is to inform the public that the curfew declared on January 17, by the Inspector General of Police is lifted… The reason the curfew was lifted is because the security status has improved and the angry demonstrators… also got calm and each and every one went back home.”
The Sudanese army has responded to the accusations by denouncing what it described as “individual violations” within the area, as human rights organizations continue to scrutinize the military’s conduct in the region.
The violence in South Sudan is rooted in longstanding regional tensions based on ethnic lines and political strife. The unrest in January relates specifically to accusations against the Sudanese military regarding violent incidents targeting South Sudanese citizens. Following the escalation of violence, a curfew was declared to restore order, highlighting the fragile security situation in the region and the potential for external conflicts to trigger internal unrest.
The lifting of the curfew signifies a slight restoration of calm in South Sudan after a period of significant unrest. Nonetheless, the tensions surrounding the situation in Sudan remain a critical concern, emphasizing the need for vigilance in ensuring the safety of the population. Continued monitoring of human rights practices and military actions will be essential to maintain stability in the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
