UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for urgent action to prevent further devastation in South Sudan amid escalating violence and political turmoil. He warned of the risks of regional conflict and emphasized the need for a restored Government of National Unity to advance peace. The humanitarian and economic situations are dire, necessitating increased international support and attention.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has urged swift action from both the leadership of South Sudan and the international community to prevent further devastation in the conflict-stricken nation. He warned that ongoing ethnic and political violence could escalate into a broader regional conflict. Guterres remarked that, “All the dark clouds of a perfect storm have descended upon the people of the world’s newest country — and one of the poorest,” highlighting the urgent situation facing South Sudan.
Tensions have escalated recently, exemplified by an armed convoy led by high-ranking security officials that entered the residence of First Vice President Riek Machar in Juba. This incident resulted in Machar’s bodyguards being disarmed and his subsequent house arrest. The long-standing rivalry between Machar and President Salva Kiir has intensified, raising concerns for the peace established by the 2018 agreement that ended five years of civil war, a conflict that claimed nearly 400,000 lives.
In the face of increasing violence, including reported airstrikes against civilians, Guterres stated that the peace agreement has “collapsed.” He called for the immediate release of all detained officials and reiterated the importance of restoring the Government of National Unity as essential for advancing towards peace. He emphasized that “the Horn of Africa is already in turmoil and cannot afford another conflict—and nor can the people of South Sudan.”
Guterres directly urged South Sudanese leaders to cease confrontational politics, release detained officials, and fulfill their commitments to the peace agreement aimed at ensuring peaceful, free, and fair elections scheduled for December 2026. The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan demands urgent attention, with nearly 75% of the population requiring aid and severe food insecurity affecting half the populace, compounded by a cholera outbreak.
The economic situation is also catastrophic, characterized by plummeting oil revenues and inflation soaring to 300%. With over a million refugees having fled to neighboring Sudan, the UN Secretary-General expressed concerns about a potential repeat of the civil wars from 2013 and 2016. He stressed the necessity of renewed diplomatic efforts and declared that “South Sudan is at a crossroads,” urging all parties to prioritize peace and rebuilding efforts.
Guterres conveyed support for the African Union’s initiative to establish the “Panel of the Wise” and for efforts by Kenyan President William Ruto’s special envoy. Despite the urgency of the humanitarian and political crisis, he noted the diminishing international attention on South Sudan and appealed for increased diplomatic and financial support. He poignantly stated, “The people of South Sudan are close to my heart. They had enormous hopes and aspirations, but sadly, they have not had the leadership they deserve.”
Growing international calls for a coordinated approach to the peace process have emerged, with institutions such as the UN, AU, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development advocating for the restoration of peace and stability in South Sudan.
In summary, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised pressing concerns regarding the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. His appeal for immediate action from both local leaders and the international community underscores the risk of a renewed conflict and the critical need for the restoration of the Government of National Unity and the fulfillment of the peace agreement. Guterres emphasizes that the future of South Sudan depends on dialogue, de-escalation, and rebuilding efforts, asserting that increased international attention and support are crucial for addressing the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.arabnews.jp
