South Sudan Enacts Nationwide Curfew to Protect Sudanese Traders
South Sudan has enacted a nationwide curfew to address violence against Sudanese traders following incidents of looting in Juba. The curfew is set from 6 p.m. to dawn, with businesses required to close by 5 p.m. Authorities have urged calm and restraint among the population amid rising tensions caused by violence and retaliatory attacks stemming from the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The government of South Sudan has implemented a nationwide curfew from dusk to dawn to address increasing violence against Sudanese traders. This decision follows incidents of looting affecting Sudanese-owned businesses in Juba, the capital city. The curfew begins at 6 p.m., with all businesses expected to close by 5 p.m. The police chief, General Abraham Manyuat, emphasized the commitment to protecting markets and ensuring safety within communities.
The violence appears to be a backlash against Sudanese nationals, triggered by allegations of attacks against South Sudanese citizens by militia groups in Sudan. In light of these tensions, local authorities have urged calm, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding hostility towards Sudanese traders residing in South Sudan. Lily Adhieu Martin Manyiel, a press secretary for the presidency, called for restraint in the face of rising tensions.
The ongoing instability has roots in the civil war in Sudan, which has led to significant humanitarian crises, including widespread famine and displacement. Since April 2023, fighting between factions of military leaders has intensified, exacerbating the situation. Reports from various organizations, including the United Nations, indicate that the conflict has resulted in severe human rights violations.
Local stores in Juba remained closed as residents adjusted to the new measures put in place for public safety. The government has stressed that its priority is ensuring safety for all residents, regardless of nationality. The curfew reflects a broader strategy to quell unrest and violence that threatens the stability of South Sudan amid regional tensions.
The imposition of a curfew in South Sudan is a direct response to violence against Sudanese traders, intertwined with the broader context of conflict in neighboring Sudan. The civil war in Sudan has led to significant suffering, with famine and displacement affecting millions. Ethnic tensions and retaliatory violence are common in the region, highlighting the delicate balance required to maintain peace and prevent conflict from spilling over into neighboring countries. As the situation evolves, local governments are under pressure to safeguard their populations while navigating complex regional dynamics.
The introduction of a nationwide curfew in South Sudan highlights urgent efforts to combat violence against Sudanese traders amid rising tensions linked to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Authorities are focused on reinforcing public safety and maintaining order, while also calling for restraint among their citizens. The worsening humanitarian situation in Sudan complicates these efforts, underscoring the need for solidarity and cooperation among communities during these challenging times.
Original Source: www.wral.com
