The UN Commission on Human Rights has warned of an alarming regression in South Sudan’s peace progress, citing recent violence that threatens a fragile power-sharing deal between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Calls from leadership emphasize the necessity of refocusing on the peace process. The situation raises fears of renewed conflict as power struggles resurface amidst accusations of violent incidents involving military forces and militias.
The United Nations commission on human rights in South Sudan has recently highlighted an alarming regression in the country’s pursuit of peace. Ongoing violence between security forces led by President Salva Kiir and an armed group allegedly linked to First Vice President Riek Machar threatens the fragile power-sharing agreement established in 2018, which aimed to resolve five years of civil conflict.
Yasmin Sooka, chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, expressed grave concerns, indicating that current circumstances could reverse significant progress made. Sooka urged leaders to prioritize the peace process and uphold the rights of citizens, advocating for a transition to democracy instead of fuelling further division and conflict.
The recent outbreak of violence began in February 2023 in Nasir County, Upper Nile state, following clashes between Sudanese armed forces and an armed youth militia. Various confrontations have since occurred, reportedly involving heavy weaponry. South Sudan’s information minister attributed part of the unrest to the White Army, a Nuer militia allegedly collaborating with Machar’s SPLM/IO party.
Tensions escalated as Kiir ordered the arrests of officials aligned with Machar and surrounded the latter’s residence, effectively placing him under house arrest. The situation worsened when a UN helicopter sustained attacks during a rescue operation, resulting in casualties among its crew.
Kiir has called for calm and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, stating, “The government I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast on the path of peace.”
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, gained independence in 2011 but has faced instability since. By 2013, internal conflicts led to severe humanitarian crises, prompting the signing of the Revitalised Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan in 2018. However, critical reforms outlined in the agreement remain unimplemented.
Barney Afako from the UN Commission on Human Rights warned of a disturbing return to prior power struggles, emphasizing that the South Sudanese people deserve peace rather than a resurgence of war.
In summary, the ongoing violence in South Sudan presents a significant threat to the hard-won peace established after years of conflict. The UN commission’s warnings underscore the urgent need for leaders to recommit to the peace process and prioritize the rights and welfare of the citizens. The path forward remains precarious, requiring concerted efforts to avert further deterioration and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
