Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, has called for restraint and dialogue to address increased tensions and armed clashes in South Sudan’s Nasir County. He expressed concerns that these conflicts threaten the implementation of the R-ARCSS and called for civilian protection and peace initiatives. IGAD intends to dispatch a high-level delegation to assess and assist the situation.
The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, has urged for restraint and dialogue to alleviate rising tensions in South Sudan. His statement highlighted a deep concern over the escalating armed conflicts, particularly in Nasir County, which present risks to the progress achieved under the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and threaten overall peace in the nation.
Gebeyehu emphasized that all parties involved must exercise maximum restraint and reaffirm their commitment to the R-ARCSS. He asserted that dialogue and reconciliation are vital for achieving sustainable peace, particularly for protecting civilians and maintaining stability in the region.
In response to the ongoing situation, IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to assess conditions on the ground and collaborate with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU). This action aims to restore calm and further the peace process.
The recent clashes in mid-February involve the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups in Nasir County. The tensions escalated after government officials announced intentions to deploy new forces in the county to rotate troops that had been stationed there for an extended period. Casualties include more than 20 individuals killed, with numerous others injured near the now-abandoned town of Nasir, located close to the South Sudan-Ethiopia border.
In summary, IGAD’s Executive Secretary has emphasized the urgent need for restraint and dialogue in light of the escalating conflicts in South Sudan. He has called for commitment to the R-ARCSS, stressing that dialogue and civilian protection are essential for stability. IGAD is responding by assessing the situation and working with the RTGoNU to restore peace. The recent unrest highlighted the fragile peace in the region, necessitating immediate and concerted efforts to prevent further bloodshed.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
