UN Highlights Alarming Regression in South Sudan Amid Rising Violence

The UN warns of alarming regression in South Sudan, with recent clashes threatening peace progress. A fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar faces peril, worsened by a fatal UN helicopter incident. Leaders must refocus on peace to halt potential conflict resurgence. The South Sudanese seek respite from ongoing violence and mismanagement.

The United Nations Commission on Human Rights has raised concerns regarding an “alarming regression” in South Sudan, warning that recent clashes in the northeast could reverse years of progress toward peace. The fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is increasingly threatened by ongoing violence involving their allied forces, particularly in the Upper Nile State.

In a recent incident, a UN helicopter attempting a rescue operation in Upper Nile State was fired upon, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others. The failure of this mission also led to the death of an army general, exacerbating the existing turmoil in a nation already burdened by political instability.

Amid rising tensions, President Kiir has urged for calm and dismissed any intentions of returning to war. Yasmin Sooka, chair of the UN commission, indicated the seriousness of the situation by stating that the nation faces a potential loss of the hard-earned progress gained over the years. To mitigate division and promote stability, she emphasized the necessity for leadership to redirect efforts toward the peace process.

Despite achieving a power-sharing pact in 2018 that ended a five-year civil war, trust between the factions remains fragile. Kiir’s allies accuse Machar’s forces of inciting unrest in Nasir County, suggesting collaboration with local armed groups known as the White Army, comprised mainly of youth from the Nuer community.

Commissioner Barney Afako further articulated concerns regarding the recent escalation, describing it as a revival of destructive power struggles that have historically plagued South Sudan. He lamented the ongoing atrocities, human rights violations, and economic mismanagement that continue to threaten the wellbeing of the South Sudanese people, advocating for urgent attention to restore peace and avoid another cycle of conflict.

The situation in South Sudan is precarious, with rising violence jeopardizing existing peace initiatives. The UN Commission’s warnings underscore the urgent need for leaders to prioritize dialogue and uphold human rights to prevent a regression into past conflicts. The country’s recovery hinges on the commitment of both political factions to stabilize the region and provide relief to its citizens, who have faced prolonged suffering in pursuit of peace.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com