A UN helicopter was attacked in South Sudan, killing one crew member and injuring two others amidst rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Kiir has reiterated the importance of maintaining peace, while Machar condemned the attack. The government has arrested several officials in response to the escalating situation.
On Friday, a United Nations helicopter was attacked in South Sudan amid rising tensions within the country. President Salva Kiir emphasized that South Sudan cannot afford to revert to war, despite ongoing discord between his administration and First Vice President Riek Machar regarding the fragile power-sharing agreement. Reports indicate clashes in Upper Nile State, exacerbating the situation.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that its helicopter was targeted while attempting to rescue South Sudanese army members, resulting in one crew member’s death and injuries to two others. The mission was described as a failure, with the UNMISS confirming the deaths of a South Sudanese army general and several officers during this incident.
President Kiir urged calm among citizens, reiterating, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take the law into their hands.” He expressed confidence that his government would manage the crisis and maintain peace.
Although a civil war concluded in 2018 following an agreement between Kiir and Machar, recent months have seen escalating tensions, with accusations from Kiir’s team against Machar’s use of the White Army to provoke unrest. Machar’s office condemned the helicopter attack as a “barbaric act,” insisting that peace restoration remains a priority.
UNMISS head Nicholas Haysom characterized the attack on personnel as abhorrent and potentially a war crime. He expressed sorrow over the casualties during the rescue attempt. Additionally, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric called for an investigation to identify and hold accountable the perpetrators of the attack.
Amid these developments, the South Sudanese government has detained several high officials, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, as tensions continue to impact the civilian population, leading to significant displacement and loss of life.
The recent attack on a UN helicopter in South Sudan highlights the escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns over stability and peace in the region. Kiir’s commitment to prevent a return to war and the call for accountability following the helicopter attack indicates the precarious situation facing the country. Continued efforts towards peace and engagement among all stakeholders remain critical to avoid further violence.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
