South Sudan faces a grave risk of reverting to war due to escalating violence and political tensions. The UN warns that recent conflicts, including the attack on a UN helicopter, could undermine the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Calls for urgent reform and international intervention highlight the dire need for sustained dialogue to prevent a humanitarian disaster and promote peace.
South Sudan is on the verge of another cycle of war as escalating violence and political tensions threaten to destabilize the fragile peace process. The United Nations has highlighted that recent hostilities, particularly in Upper Nile State, could derail the Revitalized Peace Agreement and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.
A recent attack on a United Nations helicopter in Nasir, which resulted in the deaths of UN personnel and senior South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) officers, has drawn international condemnation. The UN Commission regards this act, taking place amidst efforts to de-escalate tensions, as a potential war crime under international law.
The Commission attributes the increasing instability to political mismanagement, particularly the delays in unifying armed forces as stipulated by the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Further destabilizing factors include increasing divisions within the government, with opposition figures facing targeting and dismissals. Arrests of key opposition leaders have amplified tensions, raising concerns about the potential for renewed large-scale conflict.
Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, emphasized the need for South Sudan to advance the peace agreement and foster democratic foundations instead of regressing into conflict. She criticized the current trajectory, stating, “Instead, we are witnessing an alarming regression that could erase years of hard-won progress.”
The recent battle for Nasir has heightened political uncertainty, with the government accusing SPLA-IO of inciting violence. This has led to severe government responses, including the arrest of high-ranking opposition members, putting the fragile peace deal at further risk.
The UN Commission warned that the current situation resembles previous power struggles that plunged South Sudan into civil war. Commissioner Barney Afako remarked on the ongoing struggles, stating, “What we are witnessing now is a return to the reckless power struggles that have devastated the country in the past.”
Diplomatic efforts to calm tensions are underway, with Kenyan President William Ruto engaging with key South Sudanese leaders. However, the Commission insists that sustainable dialogue is essential to avoid renewed conflict and instability.
The UN Commission has called on international stakeholders to act swiftly, reminding all parties of their obligations to uphold human rights and to address the core issues of conflict. The unfinished reforms leave the underlying problems unaddressed, with the risk of sliding into chaos looming if adequate measures are not taken.
The Commission concluded by urging leaders to act responsibly, stating, “It is time for leaders to act responsibly. South Sudan must continue to move forward… towards stability, democracy, and lasting peace—otherwise, the country will backslide into chaos.”
In summary, South Sudan is experiencing a critical moment, with rising violence and political strife threatening the fragile peace process. The UN has issued serious warnings about the implications of recent events, emphasizing the need for immediate action and meaningful dialogue between leaders. Without reforms and commitment to the peace process, the country risks descending into chaos, affecting the lives of countless civilians. Thus, a concerted effort from both national and international figures is imperative to avert further conflict and ensure stability in South Sudan.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
