Recent clashes in South Sudan have resulted in the displacement of over 50,000 people, with ongoing violence threatening the fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The situation is further complicated by a cholera outbreak and humanitarian access restrictions.
According to a report by the United Nations, recent clashes in South Sudan have displaced at least 50,000 individuals since February. These conflicts are primarily between armed forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar occurring in the northwest region of the country, particularly in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. This unrest poses a significant threat to the fragile peace-sharing agreement currently in place.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, an official from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), highlighted that the violence is exacerbating the vulnerabilities of local communities and has resulted in the suspension of essential services. This situation was further aggravated by a government airstrike on Monday in Nasir County, which resulted in at least 20 fatalities, including children.
OCHA reported that approximately 10,000 of those displaced have sought refuge in Ethiopia. Furthermore, 23 humanitarian workers have been compelled to evacuate the area, prompting the closure of a cholera treatment unit in Nasir. Gbeho stressed the urgent need for humanitarian access, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, children, and the elderly.
Recent medical reports indicated 1,300 cholera cases in Akobo County, also located in the Upper Nile region. The ongoing conflict threatens the viability of a 2018 peace agreement between Kiir and Machar, following a devastating civil war that resulted in approximately 400,000 fatalities.
Allegations from Kiir’s allies suggest that Machar’s forces are instigating unrest in Nasir County, allegedly collaborating with the White Army, comprised of armed youths from the Nuer ethnic group. Tensions escalated earlier this month when around 6,000 White Army fighters overwhelmed a military outpost in Nasir, leading to a failed rescue operation by the United Nations that resulted in multiple casualties, including a UN helicopter pilot and a high-ranking South Sudanese general.
In conclusion, the ongoing clashes in South Sudan have led to significant humanitarian crises, displacing thousands and causing critical service suspensions. The escalation of violence not only threatens vulnerable populations but also jeopardizes the fragile peace established in 2018. Continued support for humanitarian access and conflict resolution is urgently needed to alleviate suffering in the region.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
