A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, resulting in one death and two injuries as violence amplifies between government troops and armed groups, threatening a fragile peace deal. President Kiir called for calm, while the conflict undermines efforts for reform and political stability ahead of postponed elections slated for 2026.
On March 4, 2023, a United Nations helicopter in South Sudan was attacked, resulting in the death of a crew member and injuries to two others. The incident occurred in the Nasir area of Upper Nile state while on a mission to evacuate government troops. This escalation of violence threatens the fragile peace agreement between South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, as clashes continue between government forces and an armed group known as the White Army.
President Kiir confirmed that several military personnel, including their commanding officer, Gen. Majur Dak, were casualties of the attack. In response to the crisis, President Kiir urged citizens to remain calm, assuring that his government will address the situation. Reports suggest that the White Army is suspected to have attacked the helicopter to hinder the evacuation of their adversaries, adding to the ongoing turmoil in Nasir.
The UN mission, UNMISS, highlighted that the helicopter’s evacuation was part of an effort to reduce political tensions among the feuding factions. Violent conflicts in Nasir jeopardize the 2018 peace deal aimed at ending a civil war resulting in over 400,000 deaths. Political rivalry remains a significant hurdle to peace with Kiir’s suspicions towards Machar’s ambitions and Machar’s accusations of dictatorship against Kiir.
Tensions have increased recently, with government troops surrounding Machar’s residence in Juba and detaining several of his associates. UNMISS called on all factions to avert further violence and urged the leaders to collaboratively address the rising tensions. South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has struggled with internal strife leading to civil war based on ethnic divides, stirring calls for timely implementation of the current peace agreement and planned elections.
Despite renewed hope for peace following independence, the country continues to grapple with unresolved issues, including necessary reforms within the military structure. Although the presidential elections have been postponed repeatedly, they are now slated for 2026, amidst growing international pressure for progress.
The attack on the UN helicopter in South Sudan marks a critical juncture in ongoing violent conflicts threatening the country’s fragile peace. With the death of a crew member and injuries to others, this incident underscores the urgent need for resolution among political rivals Kiir and Machar. The recent escalation in violence, particularly involving the White Army, exacerbates existing tensions that jeopardize the fragile peace deal aimed at restoring stability in the region. International focus is vital for facilitating progress toward reform and upcoming elections.
Original Source: torontosun.com
