Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has expressed full support for South Sudan amidst political turmoil, urging dialogue and stability efforts. Recent tensions arose from the arrest of opposition leaders linked to Riek Machar’s faction, amidst violent clashes. Mohamud emphasized the importance of South Sudan’s stability for regional peace and committed to backing regional discussions for resolution.
On Sunday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his nation’s unwavering support for the people of South Sudan, amidst rising political tensions following the arrest of opposition leaders. In a phone conversation with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, President Mohamud reiterated Somalia’s commitment to engaging in efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability for South Sudan.
President Mohamud conveyed his country’s significant concern regarding the latest developments in South Sudan, urging for constructive dialogue to avert further escalation of tensions. He emphasized the importance of the country’s stability, stating, “South Sudan’s stability is integral to the peace and security of our wider region.”
Additionally, President Mohamud reassured both Kiir and Machar that regional discussions were in progress to promote South Sudan’s stability and prosperity. He affirmed, “As a region, we remain committed to supporting efforts that will lead to a peaceful resolution.”
The hostilities in South Sudan escalated following the arrests of two ministers and multiple senior military officials associated with Riek Machar’s faction. These incidents occurred during violent confrontations between national forces and the White Army militia, which mainly comprises members from Machar’s Nuer ethnic group, in the northern region of Nasir.
The South Sudanese authorities explained that the arrests were due to accusations of collaboration between Machar’s faction and the White Army militia following their attacks on military positions near Nasir. However, Machar’s party denied these allegations, asserting that the arrests stemmed from legal issues with the law.
In another critical incident, a United Nations helicopter seeking to evacuate troops from Nasir was shot down, resulting in casualties among the crew and soldiers, further escalating the precarious situation. Since gaining independence as the world’s youngest nation in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant turmoil, descending into civil war by 2013. Despite a peace agreement in 2018 that largely ceased large-scale fighting, essential reforms, notably disarmament, and electoral preparations have stagnated.
In summary, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia has reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to standing in solidarity with South Sudan, stressing the need for dialogue amidst growing political unrest. He emphasized the critical nature of South Sudan’s stability for regional peace while assuring support for ongoing regional talks. The situation remains tense following recent arrests of opposition leaders, and the region is witnessing increasing violence, underscoring the urgent need for effective conflict resolution and reform efforts.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
