UN Warns of Setback in Peace Process Amid Violence in South Sudan

The UN Commission on Human Rights has announced an “alarming regression” in South Sudan’s peace process, citing recent violence threatening the fragile 2018 power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Clashes have raised fears of renewed conflict, prompting calls for a recommitment to the peace process and a focus on human rights.

The United Nations Commission on Human Rights has warned of an “alarming regression” in South Sudan, highlighting recent violent clashes that threaten the fragile peace process established by the 2018 power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The ongoing unrest has sparked fears of a renewed conflict, particularly in the country’s Upper Nile state.

Yasmin Sooka, chairperson of the UN Commission, emphasized that the current situation could reverse years of progress towards peace. She urged leaders to prioritize the peace process, protect the human rights of their citizens, and facilitate a smooth transition to democracy. Her comments reflect a broader concern about the escalating violence and its ramifications for stability in South Sudan.

The recent violence erupted after clashes between Sudanese armed forces and an alleged armed youth militia in Nasir County. Human Rights Watch suggested that rumors about forced disarmament may have contributed to the tensions. While several violent incidents have erupted since February, South Sudan’s information minister has attributed some of the unrest to the White Army, a militia associated with Machar’s political faction.

Tensions further escalated when President Kiir ordered the arrest of officials and military figures linked to Machar. A UN helicopter rescue mission also faced attack, resulting in fatalities and raising concerns over the security of UN personnel in the region. In response, President Kiir called for calm, asserting the government’s commitment to maintaining a path toward peace.

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant turmoil, leading to civil war and severe humanitarian crises. The 2018 Revitalised Agreement aimed to unite competing factions, yet significant reforms remain unimplemented. Barney Afako, a UN Commissioner, noted a disturbing return to “reckless power struggles” that have historically plagued the nation, stressing the need for lasting peace and stability for the South Sudanese people.

The situation in South Sudan has deteriorated significantly, posing challenges to the hard-won peace established by the 2018 agreement between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. The United Nations and other stakeholders underscore the urgent need for leadership to prioritize peace and uphold human rights amid escalating violence. As the country faces the threat of renewed conflict, the focus must shift towards ensuring genuine reform and stability.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com