The UN has urged South Sudan’s leaders to preserve the Revitalized Peace Agreement due to increasing violence and political tensions threatening peace. With recent arrests and clashes raising alarms, the Commission on Human Rights highlighted the urgent need for stability and protection of human rights. Political mismanagement has exacerbated the situation, and leaders are called to refocus on democracy and peace processes.
The United Nations (UN) has warned that escalating violence in South Sudan, particularly in Upper Nile State, threatens to undermine the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS) established in 2018. This agreement, signed by President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, faces significant challenges, especially with the unification of armed groups into a national army. Political tensions have been exacerbated by recent arrests of SPLA-IO military officers and government officials.
The recent arrests, which remain unexplained, followed clashes involving the army and the armed youth group known as the White Army. The situation intensified when a UN helicopter was fired upon during an evacuation attempt in Nasir, resulting in the deaths of a general and several soldiers. The UN Commission regards these incidents as potential war crimes due to their severe implications for the already fragile peace agreement.
According to the Commission, these events arise from political mismanagement and delays in military unification required by the Revitalized Agreement. As stated in their press release, “the targeting and dismissal of opposition figureheads” and military confrontations are worsening instability. Commission Chair Yasmin Sooka expressed the need for progression in implementing the peace agreement to foster democracy and stability.
Sooka emphasized the urgency for leaders to return to the peace process and protect the human rights of citizens, stating, “We are witnessing an alarming regression that could erase years of hard-won progress.” Commissioner Barney Afako echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for peace given the suffering endured by South Sudanese citizens due to past conflicts and ongoing instability.
The Commission reiterated the obligations of all parties involved in the Revitalized Agreement to uphold human rights and complete transitional processes, which include constitutional reforms and the establishment of critical mechanisms to address historical grievances. As an independent body, the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan continues to monitor and report on human rights issues since its establishment in 2016.
The UN’s call to action emphasizes the dire need for South Sudan’s leaders to recommit to the Revitalized Peace Agreement and prioritize the well-being of their citizens. The rising violence and political turmoil threaten not only the peace process but also the human rights of the populace. Thus, it is imperative that all parties uphold their obligations and work towards lasting peace and democratic governance in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
