UN Urges South Sudanese Peace Efforts Amid Rising Tensions

The UN urges South Sudanese parties to prevent a return to conflict, calling for the implementation of the peace agreement and the advancement toward democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom expresses concerns regarding rising tensions and the risk of civil war. He emphasizes the necessity of dialogue among leaders and the crucial role of the Revitalized Agreement in ensuring peace.

The United Nations has called upon South Sudanese factions to focus on preventing a return to conflict, ensuring the thorough implementation of the peace agreement, and advancing toward the nation’s first democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s top envoy in South Sudan, expressed the global body’s concerns regarding the nation teetering on the brink of civil war, which jeopardizes the significant peace achievements made since the Revitalized Agreement in 2018.

During a virtual briefing for the African Union Peace and Security Council, Haysom emphasized the urgent need for political tensions to de-escalate and advocated for adherence to the Revitalized Agreement as the sole pathway to break the cycle of ongoing conflicts. He stressed that the mechanisms supporting the peace process are crucial and are currently under severe strain, threatening the region’s stability.

Haysom highlighted the heightened tensions following the White Army militia’s takeover of the Nasir barracks on March 4. He cited the detention of various senior political figures linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) and reported civilian casualties resulting from airstrikes in Nasir, warning that escalating hate speech could worsen ethnic tensions.

While acknowledging President Salva Kiir’s commitment to preventing war, Haysom urged all parties to honor the obligations set forth in the Revitalized Agreement, both in action and intent. He encouraged the African Union Security Council to facilitate constructive dialogue between President Kiir and Deputy Riek Machar and to advocate for the timely release of detained officials while promoting a peaceful resolution to the tensions in Nasir.

He underscored the necessity of intensive dialogue to mend trust and foster relations among the parties involved and their supporters, establishing a foundation for durable peace in South Sudan.

In conclusion, the United Nations has made a poignant appeal to South Sudanese leaders to take immediate steps to avert a relapse into conflict. As emphasized by Nicholas Haysom, renewed efforts towards the full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement and the initiation of dialogue are vital for maintaining peace and fostering national unity. The situation remains precarious, and constructive actions are essential to enhance stability in South Sudan.

Original Source: english.news.cn