This letter expresses deep concern regarding the peril faced by South Sudanese men in Khartoum amidst the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. It urges the African Union to intervene and facilitate the safe evacuation of South Sudanese citizens, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic measures amidst escalating violence and a severe humanitarian crisis.
Dear Ambassador Natalina Edward Mou, I am compelled to articulate my grave concerns regarding harrowing reports that assert South Sudanese individuals residing in Khartoum are facing imminent peril. As informed by a reliable source, linked to family within Sudan, it has been observed that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) frequently target South Sudanese nationals, especially when they assume control of certain territories, often justifying these actions by alleging affiliations with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Similarly, when the RSF establishes dominance in particular areas, South Sudanese citizens are not spared from violent threats. Those still residing in these conflict-stricken regions find themselves in precarious situations. While some have successfully fled to safer locations, a significant number continue to confront the dangers of violence, especially those who possess the financial means to escape. It is imperative that we urge both factions, through the auspices of the African Union (AU), to halt the targeting of South Sudanese civilians in Sudan. Furthermore, we must advocate for secure evacuation pathways for those still present in Khartoum, safeguarding them from potential harm inflicted by either the SAF or the RSF. In the event that diplomatic measures fail, it will become increasingly necessary to prompt the South Sudanese representative to the United Nations General Assembly to convene discussions concerning the airlifting of foreign nationals still trapped in Khartoum, highlighting the concerning violence leveled against South Sudanese by military entities. The situation in Khartoum has escalated to alarming levels. Since April 2023, violent clashes have erupted between the Sudanese army and the RSF as they vie for territorial control. Recently, heightened offensives initiated by the Sudanese army to recapture critical areas have led to significant civilian casualties and extensive destruction of essential infrastructure. This prolonged conflict has uprooted millions, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis. South Sudanese individuals, who previously lacked avenues for escape, now endure tremendous hardships, facing life-threatening scenarios posed by either military faction. It is crucial for those wielding diplomatic influence to actively engage in mitigating this crisis rather than passively observing. Both the Sudanese army and the RSF, along with the Sudanese government, must acknowledge that stability in Sudan fundamentally supports the interests of South Sudan, particularly concerning economic interdependencies such as oil supply and construction resources. Achieving peace would yield substantial benefits for South Sudanese citizens, who are currently suffering tremendously due to this ongoing conflict. It is vital to clarify that the South Sudanese populace and government neither oppose Sudan nor have taken sides in this conflict. The continued targeting of South Sudanese people by both the RSF and SAF is profoundly concerning and merits urgent attention. Your diplomatic efforts in addressing this crisis would greatly bolster the support afforded to the South Sudanese community in Khartoum. Best regards, Tito Tiel, A concerned South Sudanese citizen residing in Canada. For further communication, please reach out via [email protected].
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, features violent engagements between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. As the violence escalates, South Sudanese citizens residing in Sudan have become increasingly vulnerable. The prevailing chaos has led to significant civilian casualties and has created severe humanitarian crises, especially affecting the South Sudanese community.
In summary, the targeting of South Sudanese citizens in Khartoum by both the SAF and the RSF is a pressing humanitarian issue that demands immediate diplomatic intervention. It is crucial for international bodies, particularly the African Union and the United Nations, to facilitate safe evacuation measures and advocate for the protection of South Sudanese lives amid this escalating violence. Active engagement and support from the diplomatic community can significantly alter the course of this dire situation.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org