African Diplomats and UN Urge Dialogue to Address South Sudan Security Challenges
The African Diplomatic Corps and UNMISS are urging dialogue in South Sudan to tackle escalating security issues. They call for restraint, especially in Western Equatoria, Western Bahrel Ghazal, and Upper Nile. A recent airstrike in Nasir has raised concerns about civilian safety amid rising tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. The ADC and UNMISS commend Kiir’s efforts to prevent war and emphasize the need for prompt governmental action.
The African Diplomatic Corps (ADC) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have issued a call for dialogue and mediation among the parties involved in the South Sudan conflict to effectively address the growing security challenges. Officials from both groups have highlighted the need for restraint and de-escalation, particularly in the conflict-affected states of Western Equatoria, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Upper Nile.
In a joint statement delivered from Juba, South Sudan’s capital, the ADC and UNMISS expressed their concern for the safety and property of citizens affected by the ongoing conflicts. They urged all involved parties to refrain from actions that could jeopardize civilian safety and security.
This statement was prompted by reports of renewed airstrikes targeting the troubled town of Nasir in Upper Nile State. The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, alongside the Ugandan Peoples’ Defense Force, reportedly conducted assaults on the area, leading to civilian casualties as reported by the UN. There are also rising concerns regarding hateful rhetoric and disinformation, which might escalate the conflict into an ethnic dispute.
Additionally, tensions have risen between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In-Opposition announcing its withdrawal from key security discussions until the government releases detained members. The ADC and UN representatives praised President Kiir’s public commitment to avoiding war and called for the unity government to take decisive actions to prevent further violence.
In conclusion, the ADC and UNMISS’s call for dialogue highlights the urgent need for mediation to resolve South Sudan’s security challenges. With reports of escalating violence and growing tensions among political leaders, it is imperative for all parties to prioritize civilian safety and work collaboratively to mitigate conflict. The emphasis on restraint and the acknowledgment of the public’s safety underline the commitment to a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
