AU Warned of Imminent Civil War Threat in South Sudan

Nicholas Haysom of the UN has warned the African Union that South Sudan is close to civil war. Tensions have escalated following recent military actions, and there are rising concerns of ethnic conflict. Haysom calls for urgent intervention and adherence to the peace agreement to ensure stability.

This week, Nicholas Haysom, head of the United Nations mission in South Sudan, alerted the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council that the nation is perilously close to relapsing into civil war. He emphasized the need for urgent collective action to prevent further conflict in the east African country, which has faced ongoing instability for fourteen years.
Haysom, who is also the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative, highlighted the escalating tensions following a recent takeover of military barracks by the White Army. Several Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA IO) officials have been arrested or have fled, and airstrikes are reportedly causing civilian casualties.
Moreover, Haysom pointed out a troubling rise in misinformation and hate speech, which could escalate the conflict into an ethnic confrontation. He praised President Salva Kiir for his assurances against a return to war, urging that an actual commitment to peace requires proactive steps in implementing the revitalized peace agreement.
Haysom referred to Sudan as a cautionary example and advised the AU to encourage consensus-based decision-making among South Sudan’s stakeholders. He advocated for intensive dialogue to mend relationships and foster trust, asserting that the only path to stability is through the revitalized peace agreement and promoting democratic elections in South Sudan.

In conclusion, the African Union has been alerted to the critical situation in South Sudan, as UN representatives warn of a potential civil war. Nicholas Haysom stresses immediate intervention, dialogue, and adherence to the peace agreement to prevent further escalation. The situation necessitates a collective effort to ensure stability and promote democratic processes in the nation.

Original Source: www.defenceweb.co.za