The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warns of escalating violence threatening the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Concerns include armed confrontations, increased political tensions, and failures in leadership. The Commission urges immediate action for peace and adherence to human rights, with a focus on dialogue and transitional reforms to avert a return to conflict.
The recent escalation of violence in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State and increasing political tensions in Juba pose severe threats to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, according to the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan. Armed conflicts, including a criminal attack on a UN aircraft causing fatalities among personnel, highlight the dire consequences of political mismanagement and the delayed unification of armed forces mandated by the Agreement. Moreover, the targeting of opposition leaders and military confrontations aggravate the instability and violence in the region.
Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, emphasized the urgent need for South Sudan’s leadership to refocus on the peace process. Instead of progressing towards implementation of the agreement, leaders are allowing regression that could undo years of progress. Sooka noted, “South Sudan should be moving forward… we are witnessing an alarming regression that could erase years of hard-won progress.”
Commissioner Barney Afako condemned the return to destructive power struggles, asserting that the South Sudanese people deserve respite from violence and economic mismanagement. He stated, “South Sudanese have suffered enough… they deserve respite and peace, not another cycle of war.”
The Commission reminded all stakeholders of their duty to uphold human rights and complete transitional processes including constitutional reforms and the establishment of the Truth Commission and the Hybrid Court, which are crucial for addressing the root causes of conflict and ongoing crises. Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández warned that leaders must act responsibly to avoid chaos, emphasizing the need for dialogue to resolve tensions rather than armed confrontations.
Lastly, citizens of South Sudan are calling upon regional and international actors, especially neighboring countries and guarantors of the Peace Agreement, to engage swiftly with South Sudanese leaders to de-escalate violence and commit to a dialogue aimed at fully implementing the ceasefire and achieving a smooth transition.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, an independent body established by the UN Human Rights Council, seeks to support peaceful resolutions to these conflicts and promote human rights in the region. Its Commissioners serve independently, focusing on addressing the human rights violations occurring in South Sudan.
The ongoing tensions and violence in South Sudan necessitate an urgent response from both its leaders and the international community. The UN Commission on Human Rights has called for adherence to the Revitalized Peace Agreement and the necessity of dialogue over confrontation. Addressing the deep-rooted political issues, advocating for human rights, and supporting the transitional processes are paramount to avert further conflict and restore peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
