South Sudan ceasefire monitors report violations of the truce, especially in Western Equatoria. Chairperson Maj Gen Yitayal Gelaw Bitew expressed concerns over recent armed conflicts and ensuing casualties. CTSAMVM calls for restraint from the involved parties and emphasizes the importance of dialogue and mediation for peace efforts. Investigations are underway regarding additional conflicts in Upper Nile State.
The ceasefire monitors in South Sudan have expressed serious concerns regarding violations of the truce. During the 50th meeting of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), Chairperson Maj Gen Yitayal Gelaw Bitew noted that while the ceasefire was generally maintained, recent incidents in Western Equatoria posed significant issues. He reported that for the first time in his tenure, not all regions of South Sudan uphold the ceasefire integrity.
Maj Gen Yitayal highlighted ongoing armed confrontations between two signatories in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr El Ghazal. He referenced a weekend incident on January 11-12 that involved reported clashes, stating that they were not mere misunderstandings but intentional assaults against ceasefire partners. The violence resulted in fatalities, injuries, and civilian displacements, prompting CTSAMVM’s Monitoring and Verification Teams from Wau and Yambio to investigate.
CTSAMVM condemned the violence and called for restraint and judicious decision-making from both parties. The chairperson emphasized the necessity for exceptional leadership that seeks dialogue and mediation to ease tensions and address conflicts. Furthermore, he indicated a plan to analyze a violation report from Nasir County, Upper Nile State, involving the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and armed civilians.
Maj Gen Yitayal elaborated on the historical conflict in Nasir County, which has seen ongoing mediation initiatives. The CTSAMVM supports these peace efforts and, on January 16, 2025, conducted a joint air patrol to engage with local security and civilian stakeholders, aiming to understand conflict triggers and explore how CTSAMVM can assist in future peacebuilding initiatives in the region.
South Sudan continues to grapple with a precarious peace situation despite a formal truce. The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) plays a crucial role in monitoring compliance with ceasefires and addressing violations. Recent armed clashes indicate that several parties are still struggling to adhere to the peace agreements, showcasing the ongoing fragility of stability in the region.
In summary, South Sudan’s ceasefire monitoring is facing significant challenges, particularly with recent violations documented in Western Equatoria. The CTSAMVM urges both parties to promote peace, dialogue, and mediation to combat escalating tensions. Continuous engagement and thorough investigation into these violations are crucial for restoring trust and enhancing peace efforts within the country.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
