South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir urges calm following a protest in Juba that turned into looting, linked to deaths of South Sudanese in Sudan. The nation, facing severe instability and poverty, has seen tensions flare amid the war in Sudan. Citizens are encouraged to allow the governments to resolve these issues peacefully, acknowledging the significant humanitarian crisis.
JUBA: South Sudan President Salva Kiir has called for restraint following a demonstration in the capital Juba that turned violent, resulting in looting. This protest arose in response to allegations regarding the deaths of 29 South Sudanese individuals in Wad Madani, Sudan’s Al-Jazira State. During the unrest, police discharged warning shots as demonstrators vandalized Sudanese-operated businesses.
The reported fatalities remain unverified by AFP, underscoring chronic instability within South Sudan. The nation, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, continues to grapple with violence, poverty, and a recent surge of flooding, worsened by an influx of refugees from the ongoing conflict in Sudan. President Kiir’s office commented, “We must not allow anger to cloud our judgment, and individuals fleeing violence deserve protection.”
Kiir has implored citizens to exhibit restraint and allow for dialogue between the governments of South Sudan and Sudan regarding these issues. Since April 2023, escalating conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to significant loss of life, displacement of over 12 million people, and growing famine conditions.
Both military factions have been accused of attacking civilians and bombarding residential areas indiscriminately, with the RSF facing allegations of ethnic cleansing and sexual violence against vulnerable populations. Recently, the Sudanese army reclaimed control of Wad Madani, a city that had been under RSF influence for more than a year.
This article discusses the ongoing volatile situation in South Sudan, particularly focusing on the recent protests in Juba against Sudanese interests. These protests are a reflection of heightened tensions due to the war in Sudan, which has reportedly caused significant civilian casualties and forced migration. The historical context of South Sudan’s independence and its challenges following separation from Sudan sets the stage for understanding the current unrest and President Kiir’s appeals for calm.
In conclusion, the unrest in Juba highlights the fragile state of South Sudan amidst ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. President Kiir’s call for restraint underscores the need for dialogue rather than violence in addressing grievances related to the turmoil in Sudan. As the region faces significant challenges, the responsibility lies with both governments to protect vulnerable populations while striving for stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
