The UN calls for dialogue in South Sudan to prevent a return to war and support peace agreement implementation. Concerns arise over escalating tensions following militia activities and arrests of officials. The UN representative urges leaders to collaborate for unity and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust.
The United Nations calls on South Sudanese parties to prioritize dialogue over military conflict, aiming to prevent a return to war and to support the full implementation of the peace agreement. On March 18, Nicholas Haysom, the UN Secretary-General’s special representative for South Sudan, expressed apprehension regarding the country’s imminent risk of civil war, which could undermine the peace achieved since the Revitalized Agreement was signed in 2018.
Haysom emphasized the necessity to de-escalate rising political tensions promptly, advocating for the Revitalized Agreement as the sole path toward resolving ongoing conflicts. He warned that the peace process is on the brink of collapse, stressing that further conflict would be detrimental for the region.
The unrest has escalated following the White Army militia group’s takeover of the Nasir barracks in Upper Nile State, alongside the arrests of SPLM/A-IO officials in Juba. There are rising concerns regarding civilian casualties from air strikes and the spread of hate speech and misinformation, which threatens to exacerbate ethnic tensions.
While acknowledging President Salva Kiir’s commitment to preventing war, Haysom urged all parties to adhere strictly to the Revitalized Agreement. He proposed that the African Union Security Council facilitate a meeting between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, to resolve their differences and publicly endorse unity. Furthermore, he called for the release of detained officials and highlighted the need for dialogue to address grievances and rebuild mutual trust among the parties and their supporters.
The United Nations urges South Sudanese factions to avoid military conflict and engage in constructive dialogue to uphold the peace agreement initiated in 2018. The urgency of addressing escalating tensions is clear, as military confrontations could derail the progress made towards democratic elections. Key leaders are encouraged to meet and resolve differences to foster unity and secure a peaceful future for South Sudan.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
