South Sudan’s Commitment to Peace After UN Helicopter Attack

Following a deadly attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan, President Salva Kiir has pledged that the country will not revert to war. He called for calm during a press conference in Juba, affirming his government’s commitment to peace. The incident, linked to ongoing clashes, poses a risk to the fragile power-sharing arrangement between Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar.

In the aftermath of a tragic attack on a UN helicopter, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has made a firm commitment to peace. During a press conference held in Juba, he emphasized his determination to prevent any return to warfare, stating, “The government that I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast in the path of peace.”

He reiterated his position by declaring, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their hands.” This declaration comes in light of a UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) helicopter attack that resulted in the death of a crew member during a rescue mission.

The incident occurred while the UNMISS team was attempting to evacuate soldiers in Upper Nile State, who were caught amidst ongoing clashes. The helicopter came under fire, killing one crew member and injuring two others, while also claiming the lives of a South Sudanese army general and several officers. UNMISS has indicated that this attack could potentially constitute a war crime.

Rising tensions in the region have stemmed from recent clashes between forces loyal to President Kiir and those aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar, threatening the stability of their power-sharing agreement established after a five-year civil war. Kiir’s allies have accused Machar’s forces, as well as the associated White Army, of inciting further unrest in Upper Nile State.

As the youngest nation globally, South Sudan aims to solidify its peace following the 2018 agreement between Kiir and Machar, which officially ended the lengthy civil conflict.

In summary, despite the recent violent incident involving a UN helicopter, South Sudan’s leadership remains committed to peace. President Salva Kiir has publicly announced that the country will not return to war, emphasizing the government’s role in managing the crisis and maintaining order. The ongoing tensions between conflicting factions highlight the fragility of the current peace agreements, underscoring the critical need for collaboration and stability within the nation.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com