UN Warns of Alarming Regression in South Sudan’s Peace Process
The UN warns of alarming regression in South Sudan’s peace process due to escalating violence between government and armed opposition forces, endangering the fragile power-sharing agreement of 2018. Recent clashes have led to increased tensions and significant security concerns, prompting calls for an urgent focus on peace and human rights by leaders in the country.
The United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has reported an alarming regression in the progress towards peace amidst escalating violence in the country. Yasmin Sooka, the chairperson of the commission, highlighted that recent clashes between government forces led by President Salva Kiir and an opposing armed group threaten the fragile power-sharing agreement established in 2018, which aimed to end five years of civil conflict. This escalation has raised concerns regarding the potential for renewed warfare in Upper Nile state.
The situation began to deteriorate with skirmishes in Nasir County, attributed to conflicts involving the Sudanese armed forces and a local militia. Human Rights Watch indicated that the unrest may have been instigated by rumors surrounding forced disarmament. As fighting intensifies, heavy weaponry has been utilized, and significant clashes have been reported in both Upper Nile and Western Equatoria states.
In response to the violence, South Sudan’s information minister, Michael Makuei Lueth, accused the White Army, an armed Nuer group, of colluding with First Vice President Riek Machar’s party. Tensions escalated further when President Kiir ordered the arrests of military veterans affiliated with Machar, effectively placing Machar under house arrest as the army surrounded his residence. The conflict resulted in a UN helicopter attack during a rescue operation, leading to casualties, including the death of a crew member.
In light of the turmoil, Kiir called for calm, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining peace. Despite South Sudan achieving independence in 2011, it quickly fell into civil war by 2013, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. The 2018 Revitalised Agreement aimed to unify armed factions and prepare for a democratic transition; however, vital reforms remain unmet.
Barney Afako, a member of the UN Commission, expressed concern that the nation may revert to past power struggles, highlighting the South Sudanese people’s plight amidst ongoing rights violations and violence. He asserted the need for relief and peace rather than a return to conflict.
In summary, the situation in South Sudan is deteriorating with a concerning resurgence of violence that undermines the peace process established by the 2018 power-sharing agreement. The UN Commission has called for immediate attention to safeguard human rights and prevent a regression to previous conflicts. Observers are witnessing a resurgence of reckless power struggles, threatening the stability and progress necessary for the South Sudanese people to achieve lasting peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
