President Kiir Appeals for Calm After Violent UN Helicopter Attack in South Sudan

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir calls for calm after a UN helicopter attack resulted in a crew member’s death. This incident threatens a fragile power-sharing agreement with First Vice President Riek Machar amid ongoing political tensions. UNMISS condemned the attack, highlighting potential war crimes, and regional diplomats urged a commitment to peace as the situation escalates.

In the wake of a recent attack on a UN helicopter, which resulted in the death of a crew member during a rescue operation, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm, asserting that the nation will not revert to war. This incident raises serious concerns amidst a precarious power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, marred by clashes between their forces in Upper Nile State.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that their helicopter was targeted while attempting to evacuate South Sudanese army personnel, resulting in one death and two injuries among the crew. It was also noted that several South Sudanese army officers lost their lives in this failed operation, which UNMISS described as potentially constituting a war crime.

President Kiir emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stating, “I have said it repeatedly that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take law into their hands.” He assured citizens that his administration would manage the situation, pledging to uphold peace initiatives.

Despite the cessation of a five-year civil war in 2018 through a power-sharing deal, tensions remain high. Kiir’s allies have accused Machar’s forces of creating instability alongside the White Army, a coalition of armed youths from the Nuer community that supports Machar.

UNMISS head Nicholas Haysom condemned the attack on their personnel as “utterly abhorrent” and lamented the loss of life that occurred during the attempted evacuation. In the context of the rising violence, the South Sudanese government has initiated arrests of Machar’s supporters, suggesting escalating political tensions.

As the situation evolves, regional and international diplomats have voiced concerns that continued violence jeopardizes the fragile peace agreement established in 2018, which remains critical for South Sudan’s stability. A joint statement by various embassies urged Juba-based leaders to prioritize peaceful dialogue and the welfare of the South Sudanese populace.

Additionally, UNMISS has reiterated its call for all parties to honor their ceasefire commitments and maintain the integrity of the peace agreement. Recent political maneuvers by Kiir have drawn criticism, including the dismissal of two vice-presidents and a governor without broader consultation, further straining relations within the unity government.

In conclusion, President Salva Kiir’s appeal for calm following the UN helicopter attack highlights the fragile nature of peace in South Sudan. The violent incident not only underscores the ongoing tensions between Kiir and Machar’s factions but also raises grave humanitarian concerns. As international observers call for dialogue and adherence to the peace agreement, it is evident that political stability in South Sudan remains precarious and requires urgent attention.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com