IGAD Chief Urges Restraint and Dialogue to Address South Sudan Tensions
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has urged for restraint and dialogue amidst increasing tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County, where clashes have resulted in fatalities and injuries. He emphasized the necessity of reaffirming commitments to the Revitalised Agreement and announced the dispatch of a high-level delegation to assess the situation and promote peace efforts.
The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, has appealed for restraint and dialogue to mitigate escalating tensions in South Sudan. He has expressed significant concern regarding the armed clashes occurring in Nasir County, which jeopardize the achievements made under the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
In his statement, Gebeyehu underscored that these tensions threaten not only peace but also the welfare of civilians in the region. He urged all involved parties to practice maximum restraint, reaffirm their dedication to the R-ARCSS, and focus on dialogue and reconciliation as the pathway to enduring peace.
In light of these developments, IGAD has opted to deploy a high-level delegation aimed at evaluating the situation and engaging with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity to restore calm. Gebeyehu emphasized IGAD’s unwavering commitment to facilitating the full implementation of the peace accord.
Clashes that erupted in mid-February between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and civilian armed groups in Nasir County have resulted in over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries. The tensions intensified after the government’s announcement regarding troop rotations in the area, which has experienced military presence for several years.
As part of its response, IGAD is set to assess the on-ground conditions and discuss strategies with the RTGoNU to advance peace efforts and stabilize the region.
In conclusion, the IGAD has called for immediate restraint and dialogue to address the rising tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County. The ongoing violence threatens critical progress made in peace agreements and civilian safety. Through the dispatch of a high-level delegation, IGAD aims to engage with local authorities to facilitate discussions, strengthen commitments to peace, and pursue the resolution of conflicts responsibly.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
