South Sudan President Urges Calm Following UN Helicopter Attack
President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has called for calm following an attack on a UN helicopter that killed a crew member during a rescue mission. The incident highlights rising tensions between Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar amidst a fragile power-sharing arrangement. UNMISS has condemned the attack, warning it may constitute a war crime, while diplomatic efforts urge leadership to prioritize peace and dialogue.
In light of a recent attack on a UN helicopter that resulted in the death of a crew member, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm, assuring the populace the nation will “not go back to war.” The incident highlights tensions surrounding a delicate power-sharing arrangement between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar amidst recent clashes in Upper Nile State.
The helicopter was part of a UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) operation aimed at rescuing South Sudanese army personnel when it came under fire, resulting in casualties among the crew and local army officials. The UNMISS, in its statement, suggested that this incident may qualify as a war crime.
President Kiir emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, urging citizens to refrain from taking law into their own hands. He stated, “The government which I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast in the path of peace.”
Since ending a lengthy civil war with the 2018 peace agreement, South Sudan has faced ongoing strife. Allegations have surfaced that Kiir’s allies claim Machar’s forces are causing unrest in the region, exacerbated by the involvement of the armed youth group known as the White Army.
Nicholas Haysom, head of UNMISS, condemned the attack on its personnel, labeling it severely unacceptable. He expressed regret for the loss of life during the rescue operation, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
In response to the violence, Kiir’s government has arrested several of Machar’s allies including high-ranking officials. The unrest has raised alarms among international diplomats about the stability of the 2018 peace agreement, which ended a conflict that resulted in approximately 400,000 fatalities.
A coalition of embassies, including the US, Britain, and the EU, urged Juba’s leaders to engage in peaceful dialogue, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing the interests of the South Sudanese people above all else. UNMISS has reiterated calls for adherence to ceasefire commitments and the necessity of protecting the integrity of the existing peace agreement.
Additionally, President Kiir has faced criticism for recent political maneuvers viewed as efforts to strengthen his power by sidelining Machar, including firing vice-presidents and dismissing a governor affiliated with Machar’s movement without sufficient consultation.
In conclusion, South Sudan is presently grappling with significant unrest following a tragic incident involving a UN helicopter. President Kiir’s appeal for peace underscores the fragility of the nation’s political landscape, particularly amid accusations of provocation against Machar’s forces. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, advocating for dialogue and adherence to peace agreements to prevent further escalation of violence. The ongoing political maneuvers raise concerns about the potential destabilization of recent political accords.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
