Peace monitors in South Sudan demand immediate investigations into violence in Upper Nile State and the attack on a UN helicopter. The RJMEC seeks cessation of hostilities and urges parties to engage in dialogue for peace. Over 20 casualties reported, raising international concern regarding the stability of the unity government.
Peace monitors in South Sudan have urgently called for thorough investigations into the violence occurring in Upper Nile State, particularly following an attack on a UN helicopter that resulted in the death of a UN personnel and numerous soldiers. The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) condemned these acts of violence and has appealed to conflicting parties to halt hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue to promote peace within the nation.
The RJMEC has emphasized the importance of immediate cessation of hostilities, stating, “RJMEC calls upon all the parties involved to immediately cease any further hostilities, give dialogue a chance, and ensure calm is quickly restored,” as indicated in a statement from Juba, South Sudan’s capital. The ongoing fighting in Nasir, a strategically significant town, has increased tensions since March 3, resulting in the arrest of high-ranking officials from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO). This group is led by First Vice President Riek Machar.
The developments have drawn significant concern from the international community, who fear that these actions jeopardize the fragile coalition government established by a 2018 peace deal that ended a protracted five-year civil conflict. Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have been killed, with many more injured, in the currently deserted area of Nasir, which lies along the border between South Sudan and Ethiopia.
To address this crisis, the RJMEC has urged the unity government to implement decisive measures for de-escalation. Furthermore, it has implored the Joint Defence Board—an essential entity established by the 2018 peace agreement responsible for managing armed forces—to fulfill its duties effectively. The RJMEC has also urged the National Transitional Committee to expedite the unification and deployment of forces to uphold peace throughout the country and prevent similar incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the RJMEC’s statement highlights the urgency for peace and stability in South Sudan amidst escalating violence in Upper Nile State. Their calls for dialogue, thorough investigations, and effective governance are critical to restoring calm and preventing further conflict. The international community’s concern underscores the need for immediate action to uphold the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement.
Original Source: www.siasat.com
