On January 16, 2025, protests erupted in Juba, South Sudan, over the massacre of South Sudanese in Sudan. Rioters targeted Sudanese businesses and the embassy, resulting in violence. This unrest stems from the recent recapture of Wad Madani by the Sudanese Armed Forces, which has led to civilian casualties and international condemnation. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on military leaders involved in these violations.
On January 16, 2025, riots erupted in Juba, South Sudan’s capital, as citizens protested against the massacre of South Sudanese in Khartoum, Sudan. The chaos led to looting of Sudanese-owned businesses and a violent attack on the Sudanese embassy, resulting in the death of a diplomat. Amidst the unrest, police resorted to firing shots into the air to disperse protesters. Reports of civilian massacres following the capture of Wad Madani by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have fueled public outrage.
Wad Madani, the capital of Sudan’s Jazira State and a significant wheat-producing area, was taken by SAF on January 11, 2025, after being previously held by Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The return of SAF control in Wad Madani has incited anger, particularly due to disturbing videos depicting atrocities against South Sudanese individuals. In response, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Sudanese ambassador to express their outrage over the civilian casualties.
The Sudanese government has announced a commission of inquiry into the atrocities claimed to have occurred in Wad Madani. The Sudanese ambassador to Juba emphasized that the human rights abuses were not perpetrated by official soldiers but rather by militia groups associated with the army. A spokesperson for the SAF acknowledged that violations had taken place but attributed them to individuals.
Previously viewed as a safe haven, Wad Madani had sheltered thousands of people, including South Sudanese citizens, fleeing conflicts elsewhere in Sudan. The SAF’s takeover marked a pivotal moment in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, characterized by severe human rights violations by all involved factions. In light of these events, the U.S. government has imposed sanctions against key military leaders and entities for their roles in the violence against civilians.
The tensions between South Sudan and Sudan have escalated following the tragic events in Wad Madani, where numerous civilians, including South Sudanese, lost their lives amid the ongoing conflict. The complex dynamics include the actions of different military factions, allegations of human rights violations, and the resulting humanitarian implications. Additionally, the international response, particularly from the United States, which has placed sanctions on military officials, highlights the seriousness of the situation.
The recent riots in Juba underscore the growing tensions between South Sudan and Sudan, particularly in the wake of the violent incidents in Wad Madani. The massacres of South Sudanese civilians have led to public outrage and international scrutiny, prompting both governmental and diplomatic actions. The situation remains critical, with the potential for further unrest and the necessity for accountability regarding human rights violations. Vigilance from the international community will be crucial in addressing these pressing concerns.
Original Source: www.fides.org
