Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD, urges restraint and dialogue to address the increasing tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County. He expresses concern over the risk to peace stemming from recent armed clashes. Moreover, IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to engage with the transitional government and affirm its commitment to the peace agreement’s implementation.
The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, has urged for restraint and dialogue to alleviate escalating tensions in South Sudan. He expressed considerable concern regarding the armed confrontations in Nasir County, emphasizing the dangers these developments pose to the accomplishments achieved through the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
Gebeyehu implored all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint and reaffirm their dedication to the R-ARCSS. He stressed that prioritizing dialogue and reconciliation represents the only viable approach to ensuring peace and safeguarding civilian welfare in the region.
In light of the ongoing crisis, the eight-member East African bloc has resolved to send a high-level delegation to assess the situation and engage with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity. This initiative aims to restore calm and further the peace process.
The IGAD remains committed as a guarantor of the revitalised peace accord and emphasizes the necessity of its full implementation. Recent clashes initiated between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups in mid-February have resulted in significant casualties, with more than 20 individuals reported dead and numerous injuries occurring near Nasir.
The tensions heightened following the announcement of government plans to deploy new forces to replace troops that have been stationed in Nasir County for an extended period. As a response to this escalating situation, IGAD will actively engage with the RTGoNU to facilitate measures conducive to revitalizing peace and stability in South Sudan.
In conclusion, the IGAD Chief’s call for restraint and dialogue underscores the urgent need to address the escalating violence in South Sudan. The ongoing clashes in Nasir County not only threaten peace but also impact the success of the R-ARCSS. The deployment of a high-level delegation reflects the commitment of IGAD to mediate and support the peaceful resolution of this crisis, prioritizing the protection of civilians and the restoration of stability in the region.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
