Somalia’s President Calls for Peaceful Dialogue in South Sudan Crisis

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urges South Sudan’s leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent escalating violence between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The U.S. has withdrawn nonemergency personnel due to worsening conflict, while the U.N. labels an attack on a U.N. helicopter a potential war crime, threatening South Sudan’s peace agreement.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia has called for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue among the conflicting factions in South Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need to halt the escalating violence in the nation. The tensions are primarily between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, leading to widespread violence and the displacement of thousands.

In a recent phone conversation, President Hassan Sheikh spoke with both leaders, urging them to engage in discussions to resolve their disputes peacefully. He expressed solidarity with the people of South Sudan and reiterated Somalia’s commitment to supporting efforts for a sustainable resolution.

Amid escalating tensions, the U.S. State Department advised nonemergency personnel to evacuate South Sudan’s capital due to ongoing conflict and the availability of weapons among the populace. The situation has further deteriorated following the arrest and subsequent release of several government ministers linked to Riek Machar, prompting unrest among his supporters.

A recent attack on a U.N. helicopter during an evacuation mission has exacerbated the security crisis, with the U.N. Commission on Human Rights labeling it as a potential war crime. The commission warned that the ongoing violence threatens to undermine the peace agreement established in 2018, which ended five years of civil war.

Chairperson Yasmin Sooka highlighted the need for the leaders to shift focus back to the peace process, uphold human rights, and ensure a democratic transition, as the current situation poses a risk of reversing progress made in the nation.

In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia has emphasized the necessity for dialogue among warring factions in South Sudan to prevent further violence. The situation remains critical as the U.S. and U.N. raise alarms regarding escalating tensions and potential violations of human rights. Continued commitment to peace and stability by both regional and international actors is essential for South Sudan’s future.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com