Urgent Call from UN Commission: South Sudan Leaders Must Uphold Peace Agreement

The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warns about escalating violence and political tensions threatening the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Incidents of armed conflict, including attacks on UN personnel, highlight severe issues provocated by political mismanagement. The Commission urges leaders to refocus on peace efforts, ensuring human rights and progressing towards democracy to avoid further crisis.

The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has expressed urgent concerns regarding escalating violence in Upper Nile State and growing political tensions in Juba, which threaten the enduring Revitalized Peace Agreement. Recent violent incidents, including the assault on a UN aircraft resulting in fatalities, highlight the dire situation and signify acts that may amount to war crimes. The inability to unify armed forces and the political mismanagement are exacerbating instability in the region.

Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, emphasized the importance of progress towards implementing the peace agreement and advancing democracy. “South Sudan should be moving forward,” she stated. “Instead, we are witnessing an alarming regression that could erase years of hard-won progress.” She urged leaders to prioritize the peace process to safeguard the human rights of citizens and ensure a smooth transition to democracy.

Commissioner Barney Afako echoed these sentiments, lamenting the return to destructive power struggles that have historically plagued South Sudan. He stated, “South Sudanese have suffered enough. They have endured atrocities, rights violations which amount to serious crimes, economic mismanagement, and ever worsening security.” He advocates for peace rather than another cycle of war.

The Commission reiterated that all stakeholders in the Revitalized Agreement must adhere to their obligations regarding human rights and transitional governance. Key reforms, such as establishing a Truth Commission and a Hybrid Court, are critical in addressing underlying issues that lead to repeated crises and violations.

Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández highlighted the need for responsible leadership, stressing the importance of dialogue over armed conflict. He warned that continued instability risks plunging the nation back into chaos and emphasized that regional players and international actors must step in to support the leaders in resolving ongoing tensions.

The UN Commission on Human Rights underscores the dire situation in South Sudan, emphasizing the need for urgent action to uphold the Revitalized Peace Agreement. As violence escalates in Upper Nile State and political tensions rise, the Commission calls for a commitment to dialogue, human rights respect, and the completion of transitional processes. The future of South Sudan hinges on responsible leadership and the collective effort of both domestic and international stakeholders to foster stability and peace.

Original Source: reliefweb.int