UN Envoy Warns South Sudan is on the Brink of Renewed Civil War

South Sudan is on the brink of renewed civil war, according to UN envoy Nicolas Haysom. He cited the government’s delay in peace efforts and increased ethnic tensions as key factors. The UN is urging leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Machar to engage in dialogue, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and democracy in the nation.

The situation in South Sudan is increasingly precarious, with the United Nations envoy warning that the country may be on the brink of renewed civil war. Nicolas Haysom, the UN representative, highlighted the recent postponement of peace efforts by the government as a critical setback and urged both President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar to prioritize their citizens’ welfare over personal ambitions.

Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, hopes for a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan have been dashed by ongoing ethnic conflicts that spiraled into civil war in December 2013. The conflict, which caused the death of over 40,000 individuals, eventually led to a peace agreement in 2018, which established a national unity government. However, a series of postponements regarding scheduled elections have exacerbated tensions and uncertainty within the nation.

Escalating violence has been reported, particularly in the northern regions between government forces and the rebel militia known as the White Army, which is suspected to be affiliated with Machar. Incidents such as the attack on a UN helicopter and the surrounding of Machar’s residence by government troops underscore the deteriorating security situation. Haysom indicated that, as political competition intensifies, mistrust between Kiir and Machar hampers progress toward effective governance and the realization of the 2018 peace agreement.

The proliferation of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech further aggravates the existing tensions, driving ethnic divisions and increasing fear among the populace. Haysom concluded that, in light of these factors, the likelihood of South Sudan descending into civil war appears imminent. He emphasized the urgency of diplomatic efforts to mediate a resolution between the leaders. The UN peacekeeping mission is actively pursuing shuttle diplomacy with various stakeholders including the African Union, advocating dialogue over military conflict, adherence to the ceasefire, and the release of detained officials.

In conclusion, South Sudan faces a critical juncture, with mounting tensions suggesting a potential return to civil war. The international community, led by the United Nations, urges the leadership to prioritize peace and dialogue. Addressing underlying ethnic divisions and adhering to previous agreements are crucial steps toward ensuring a stable future for South Sudan.

Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca