Call for Dialogue in South Sudan by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for dialogue among warring factions in South Sudan to prevent violence escalation. Tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar have led to civilian casualties and displacements. Amidst this, the U.S. ordered personnel evacuation, and a U.N. helicopter was attacked, complicating the security situation and threatening the peace agreement. The U.N. urges leaders to refocus on peace rather than conflict.

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has urged the warring factions in South Sudan to engage in dialogue, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent further violence in the nation that is currently grappling with stability issues. President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar are embroiled in a fierce dispute, causing their supporting communities to resort to violence, leading to significant casualties and displacements.

In a recent phone conversation, President Hassan Sheikh reached out to both leaders, advocating for dialogue to mitigate the ongoing conflict that has spread across multiple states. He stated his commitment to supporting peace initiatives, emphasizing, “Somalia stands in full solidarity with the people of South Sudan and remains committed to supporting efforts for a peaceful and lasting resolution.”

As tensions rise, the U.S. State Department has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel from South Sudan’s capital, citing ongoing fighting exacerbated by readily available weapons. Amidst this unrest, several government ministers associated with Machar were arrested when violence instigated by the group known as the White Army broke out, although they have since been released.

An attack on a U.N. helicopter during a northbound evacuation mission has further complicated the security situation, with allegations labeling it as a potential war crime. According to the U.N. Commission on Human Rights, the escalating violence alongside tensions in Juba poses a significant threat to South Sudan’s peace agreement. Chairperson Yasmin Sooka remarked on this regression by asserting, “Rather than fueling division and conflict, leaders must urgently refocus on the peace process.”

In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh of Somalia has called for immediate dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders to avert further violence, urging a renewed focus on peace and stability. Amid heightened tensions and a deteriorating security situation marked by violence and governmental arrests, both the U.N. and the U.S. express concern over the impact on the fragile peace agreement established post-civil war. The emphasis remains on urging leaders to prioritize the well-being of their citizens and uphold human rights to ensure a stable democratic transition.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com