The UN commission warns of an alarming regression in South Sudan’s peace process amid escalating violence that threatens the power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar, necessitating urgent action to uphold human rights and prevent further conflict.
The United Nations commission on human rights in South Sudan has raised alarm over a recent “alarming regression” in the nation’s peace process, highlighting ongoing violence threatening years of progress. Clashes in the northeast region have intensified, risking the fragile power-sharing agreement established between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar in 2018.
Yasmin Sooka, the chairperson of the UN Commission, emphasized the need for leaders to transition from division to reconciliation, stating, “Rather than fuelling division and conflict, leaders must urgently refocus on the peace process.” The deteriorating situation has triggered fears of renewed civil war, particularly in the Upper Nile state, where incidents of violence between the Sudanese armed forces and militias have been reported.
The violence reportedly began in February when confrontations arose in Nasir County, possibly linked to forced disarmament rumors. According to the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), these clashes have involved heavy weaponry and have extended to other regions, raising serious concerns. Additionally, tensions escalated as Kiir ordered the arrest of several officials connected to Machar, effectively placing Machar under house arrest.
In a recent incident, a UN helicopter was attacked during a rescue operation, resulting in fatalities and injuries among the crew members. Following this, President Kiir urged for calm, affirming, “The government I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast on the path of peace.”
South Sudan, which became independent in 2011, has faced ongoing turmoil since a civil war erupted in 2013, resulting in substantial loss of life and displacement. The Revitalised Agreement aimed to unite armed factions and initiate democratic reforms, yet these measures remain largely unimplemented. Barney Afako from the UN Commission warned of a worrying return to previous power struggles, underscoring the dire need for relief and lasting peace for the South Sudanese people.
The situation in South Sudan remains critical as violence threatens the progress made since the peace agreement of 2018. Key leaders are urged to prioritize peace and human rights, amidst fears of returning to civil conflict. The international community, including the UN, continues to express concern over the potential for renewed hostilities and the pressing need for effective governance and reform in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
