UN Urges South Sudanese Leaders to Engage in Dialogue to Prevent Conflict

The UN has urged South Sudanese parties to prevent conflict resurgence and support the full implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. Concerns over escalating violence and ethnic tensions were addressed by Nicholas Haysom during an African Union meeting, highlighting the need for trust-building and immediate dialogue among leaders.

The United Nations urges South Sudanese factions to focus on preventing another war and to support the execution of the existing peace agreement as well as the transition towards the country’s inaugural democratic elections, according to Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s Special Representative to South Sudan. During a virtual meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council, Haysom expressed the UN’s deep concerns regarding the imminent danger of civil conflict that could undermine the achievements made since the 2018 Revitalized Agreement.

Haysom emphasized that the current political tensions must be reduced swiftly to avert the resurgence of conflict, reiterating that adherence to the Revitalized Agreement is imperative for peace. He stressed that the ongoing peace process is crucial and at a critical juncture, highlighting that the region cannot endure another cycle of violence. Tensions have escalated following a takeover of the Nasir barracks by the White Army militia group.

Furthermore, Haysom reported on the recent arrests of senior SPLM/A-IO officials and the resultant climate of fear as some officials have fled the country. He noted that military confrontations have led to civilian casualties and an alarming rise in hate speech, raising concerns about potential ethnic conflict. Haysom acknowledged President Salva Kiir’s commitment to avoiding war but insisted on the need for concrete actions to implement the Revitalized Agreement in both spirit and letter.

He urged the African Union Security Council to motivate Kiir and Deputy Riek Machar to collaboratively resolve their disputes and to demonstrate unity to the nation. Additionally, he called for the immediate release of detained officials, asserting that grievances should be resolved through meaningful dialogue rather than military actions to foster trust between the factions and their supporters.

In summary, the United Nations has strongly advocated for South Sudanese leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent a recurrence of conflict, emphasizing the necessity of implementing the Revitalized Agreement while maintaining unity. The concerns surrounding rising tensions and potential ethnic conflict highlight the urgent need for trust-building and constructive dialogue among all parties involved. A collaborative effort is essential to ensure peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: english.news.cn