South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir urges calm after a UN helicopter attack raised tensions amid a fragile power-sharing agreement with Vice President Riek Machar. The incident killed one crew member and injured others, prompting accusations of potential war crimes. Kiir stresses his commitment to peace, as political unrest and violence threaten the stability achieved since the end of the civil war in 2018.
President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has appealed for calm in the wake of a recent attack on a UN helicopter, which resulted in the death of a crew member during a rescue mission. He expressed a commitment to ensuring that the nation does not revert to war and emphasized that the government would manage the escalating crisis responsibly.
The attack occurred amidst rising tensions in South Sudan, particularly affecting the fragile power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Clashes among their allied troops have been reported in Upper Nile State, undermining peace efforts since the end of the five-year civil war in 2018.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that its helicopter came under fire while attempting to extract South Sudanese military personnel, leading to significant injuries among the crew. UNMISS characterized the attack as potentially qualifying as a war crime and expressed condolences for those lost during the mission.
In response to escalating conflict, President Kiir has rallied citizens to avoid taking the law into their own hands, asserting that the government would maintain its commitment to peace. Additionally, arrests have been made of several key figures within Machar’s faction, signaling a deepening of political strife.
The recent unrest in Nasir County has resulted in civilian displacement and casualties, prompting renewed calls from international diplomats for adherence to the 2018 peace agreement. This fragile peace is at risk, with embassies from the US, Britain, and the EU urging South Sudanese leaders to prioritize dialogue and the needs of their citizens over political maneuvering.
Furthermore, recent political actions taken by President Kiir have come under scrutiny, with analysts suggesting that these moves may be attempts to consolidate power and marginalize the influence of Vice President Machar. Last month, two vice-presidents were dismissed without broader consultation, highlighting ongoing tensions within the government.
In conclusion, the recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan underscores the fragility of the existing peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The situation has escalated tensions further, leading to significant political and military repercussions. It is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and adhere to peace agreements to avoid a regression into conflict.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
