Violence has erupted in Nasir County between the SSPDF and the White Army, leading to civilian casualties and mass displacement. Local leaders, including Ter Chuol Gatkuoth, have reported heavy shelling and accused government forces of targeting non-combatants. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of this unrest on peace initiatives in South Sudan. The situation remains tense, with official updates pending amid communication challenges.
Clashes have erupted in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the local armed group known as the White Army. The violence, which commenced early on Monday, has led to casualties and has prompted many residents to flee to safer areas. Reports indicate that heavy machine gunfire and aerial bombardments continue in the region.
Ter Chuol Gatkuoth, a local youth leader, reported to Radio Tamazuj that the hostilities resulted in civilian casualties and widespread displacement. He expressed frustration at the contradictory messages from government soldiers, who had assured civilians of no fighting, only for aggressive shelling to follow on the very next day. “The government soldiers told us yesterday that there would be no fighting, and we agreed,” said Gatkuoth, adding that the number of casualties remains unclear.
Gatkuoth accused the SSPDF of intentionally targeting civilians and undermining peace efforts. He emphasized a feeling of disenfranchisement among the people of Nasir. The current turmoil follows a period of instability in Upper Nile State, which escalated after the government deployed additional forces, including the Agwelek militia group.
Commissioner of Nasir County, Gatluak Lew, confirmed ongoing fighting but refrained from providing further information, claiming the need for more data. SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang also acknowledged the operation in Nasir County but noted communication difficulties in gathering complete details, promising to provide updates as they become available.
Ter Manyang Gatwech, Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, warned that renewed violence could jeopardize the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. He stated that the conflict began after a member of the White Army was killed by the SSPDF. “Both political leaders will bear primary responsibility if the country returns to full-scale war due to mismanagement of this crisis,” he asserted, urging adherence to the peace agreements and dialogue to avert further conflict.
The ongoing clashes in Nasir County underscore a dire humanitarian situation, with civilians caught in the crossfire and significant tensions returning to South Sudan. Local leaders have expressed severe concerns over civilian safety and the potential regression to full-scale conflict. It is imperative for both parties to adhere to peace commitments and prioritize dialogue to ensure stability and protect civilian lives. As the situation evolves, further updates will provide clarity on the deeply troubling developments in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org