The UN Commission on Human Rights warns of an “alarming regression” in South Sudan’s peace efforts due to recent violent clashes that threaten the fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The situation is exacerbated by accusations of violent struggles and calls for immediate cessation of hostilities. The enduring conflict underscores the need for leaders to prioritize human rights and the peace process.
The United Nations commission on human rights for South Sudan has issued a grave warning regarding an “alarming regression” in the pursuit of peace. This concern stems from recent violent clashes in the country’s northeast, which jeopardize the fragile power-sharing deal between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, originally established in 2018 to conclude five years of civil conflict. The recent violence raises fears of renewed war, particularly in the Upper Nile state.
Yasmin Sooka, chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, emphasized the urgency of refocusing on the peace process. She stated, “Rather than fuelling division and conflict, leaders must urgently refocus on the peace process, uphold the human rights of South Sudanese citizens, and ensure a smooth transition to democracy.” These sentiments were echoed by Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the African Union Commission, who called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The onset of violence can be traced back to clashes between the Sudanese armed forces and an armed youth militia in Upper Nile state. Human Rights Watch (HRW) indicated that rumors of forced disarmament may have aggravated tensions. Numerous confrontations have occurred, employing heavy weaponry, as reported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). South Sudan’s information minister attributed part of the blame to the White Army, an armed group linked to Machar’s faction.
Tensions escalated significantly when President Kiir ordered the arrest of several officials tied to Machar and surrounded Machar’s residence with military forces. Furthermore, a UN rescue mission was attacked, resulting in casualties, including the death of a crew member. In response, President Kiir stated, “The government I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast on the path of peace.”
Since achieving independence in 2011, South Sudan has been marred by internal conflict, which escalated into civil war by 2013. Despite the signing of the Revitalised Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) aimed at facilitating unity and peace, significant reforms remain unrealized. Member of the UN Commission, Barney Afako, expressed concern over a resurgence of power struggles reminiscent of past devastations, noting that South Sudanese citizens are deserving of peace, not another cycle of warfare.
The situation in South Sudan has reached a critical juncture, with escalating violence threatening to unravel years of progress towards peace. The UN Commission on Human Rights’ warnings highlight the need for immediate action to restore stability and uphold human rights. Leaders must prioritize the peace process and ensure the well-being of South Sudanese citizens to prevent a return to devastating conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
