Peace partners are urging South Sudanese leaders to unite and de-escalate tensions to prevent a return to civil war. Concerns were raised during an AU Peace and Security Council meeting, highlighting risks stemming from recent conflicts. Calls were made for immediate diplomatic action and adherence to the Revitalized Agreement to safeguard efforts for peace and stability.
Regional and international peace partners have expressed urgent concerns over the escalating tensions in South Sudan, emphasizing the necessity for leaders to unite and avert a return to civil war. This appeal was made during a virtual meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council regarding South Sudan’s precarious situation.
Ambassador Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, indicated that the nation is on the brink of severe conflict. He stressed that the peace sustained over the past seven years is at risk of collapse and that immediate diplomatic intervention is essential to prevent a regional catastrophe.
Multiple contributing factors to the worsening conditions were identified, including armed clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the White Army, airstrikes in Nasir, increasing tensions from the presence of Ugandan troops, and rising public disputes among political entities.
The Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom, concurred on the need for swift, unified action to avert war, noting that South Sudan is on the verge of losing hard-earned peace since the 2018 Revitalized Agreement. He urged the parties to implement this agreement fully to safeguard peace.
On behalf of the South Sudanese government, Acting Ambassador Boutrus Thok Deng stated that recent conflicts resulted from misunderstandings during military redeployment and assured the commitment to restoring peace. He referenced President Salva Kiir’s pledge to uphold peace and avoid conflict, emphasizing the government’s dedication to the peace agreement.
The Head of UNMISS called for renewed adherence to the cessation of hostilities and the peace agreement, urging leaders to address their differences collaboratively and to demonstrate national unity. He advocated for dialogue in response to emerging tensions rather than military escalation.
Mr. Haysom warned against the potential for rapid deterioration similar to that observed in Sudan, asserting that the only escape from ongoing conflict lies within the framework of the Revitalized Agreement. He reiterated that the region cannot endure another conflict and emphasized the urgency in fostering democratic processes toward peaceful elections.
In conclusion, the regional and international peace partners have raised alarms regarding the critical situation in South Sudan, emphasizing immediate and unified actions to prevent war. The importance of implementing the Revitalized Agreement was underscored, as well as the government’s stated commitment to peace. The call for dialogue and adherence to peace mechanisms is vital to ensuring stability in a region that cannot afford further conflict.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
