Escalating Violence in Nasir County: Civilians Displaced Amid Ongoing Clashes

Fighting in Nasir County, South Sudan, between the SSPDF and the White Army has led to casualties and civilian displacement. Local leaders report use of heavy weaponry and airstrikes, raising concerns about targeting of civilians. Tensions escalate amidst fears that military deployments could undermine peace efforts as the situation remains unstable.

Clashes have erupted in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and a local militia known as the White Army. These confrontations, which commenced early Monday, have resulted in numerous casualties and a mass exodus of local residents seeking refuge in safer areas. Eyewitness accounts describe intense gunfire and aerial assaults, raising alarm about the ongoing violence.

Local youth leader Ter Chuol Gatkuoth reported that after initially receiving assurances from government soldiers about maintaining peace, the situation deteriorated drastically. “Our people returned, but surprisingly, this morning, they started to shell us in the town with their big machine guns, and they also bombed us by planes,” Chuol stated, indicating that the violence has affected civilians significantly.

The security situation in Upper Nile State has been volatile since mid-February due to previous skirmishes between the SSPDF and the White Army. There are growing concerns within local communities that the recent deployment of government forces could result in further civilian targeting. Residents have urged for the establishment of the Necessary Unified Force as stipulated in the 2018 peace agreement, rather than additional military presence that raises fears of violence.

The conflict continues, with Nasir County Commissioner Gatluak Lew confirming that fighting persists, although he could not provide specific details. In response to inquiries about the military operations, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang acknowledged the situation but noted the difficulties in communication, citing network issues. Further updates are awaited as military officials gather more information.

Ter Manyang Gatwech, the Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), expressed concerns that the recent resurgence of violence jeopardizes the fragile peace established by the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. He attributed the start of the current clashes to an incident involving the shooting of a White Army member by the SSPDF. His call for dialogue emphasized the need for both sides to adhere to existing ceasefire agreements to avert an escalation into a larger conflict.

The situation in Nasir County reflects escalating tensions between the SSPDF and the White Army, resulting in civilian casualties and displacement. Local leaders have expressed concern over the deployment of government forces and its implications for civilian security. The continuing violence threatens the peace process and emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue and adherence to ceasefire agreements.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org