The United Nations has urged for calm amidst violent clashes in South Sudan that resulted in civilian casualties and injuries to a peacekeeper. Reports indicate the fighting involved the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed youth in Upper Nile state. UN officials have emphasized the need for immediate restraint and the completion of military unification in the country.
The United Nations has called for calm following reports of violent clashes in South Sudan that led to civilian casualties and injuries to a peacekeeper. These confrontations occurred between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPSF) and armed youth in Nasir, Upper Nile state, on February 14 and 15, as stated by the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
According to UNMISS, while the specific groups involved were not identified, some combatants employed heavy weaponry, resulting in significant injuries among civilians and military personnel. The UN also reported that a peacekeeper sustained injuries during mortar shelling while on a routine patrol.
Nicholas Haysom, the UN Secretary-General’s special representative and head of UNMISS, urgently appealed for an immediate ceasefire and restraint from all parties involved. He condemned any acts of violence against peacekeepers, asserting that such actions violate international law.
The UN statement also highlighted ongoing tensions in Western Equatoria state, noting clashes between organized forces without providing additional details. Haysom emphasized that these incidents demonstrate the pressing need for the complete integration of South Sudan’s armed forces.
Following a devastating civil war from 2013 to 2018, South Sudan agreed to a peace agreement that mandated the unification of its military forces prior to elections, which have faced repeated delays. However, UNMISS indicates that this unification process remains incomplete, exacerbating the country’s instability.
In summary, the UN has urgently called for calm in South Sudan following violent clashes that resulted in civilian deaths and injuries to peacekeepers. The ongoing tensions and failure to unify the armed forces highlight the country’s persistent instability since its independence in 2011. UN officials continue to advocate for an end to violence and the need for comprehensive military integration to foster peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
