South Sudan Leaders Convene to Reduce Tensions and Foster Unity

South Sudan’s leaders convened a high-profile meeting to address rising tensions in Nasir County and Western Equatoria. They agreed to allow troops from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces to deploy to Nasir County, emphasizing the need for community cooperation. The meeting highlighted commitments to national unity and the importance of avoiding harmful propaganda that could escalate tensions.

In a bid to reduce tensions in Upper Nile State’s Nasir County and Western Equatoria State, the Presidency of South Sudan convened a high-profile meeting on Monday, under the chairmanship of President Salva Kiir Mayardit. Key figures in attendance included First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, Vice President for the Economic Cluster Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, and Vice President for the Service Cluster Josephine Lagu, along with leaders from various political parties.

During the meeting, the leaders agreed to allow the deployment of South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) to Nasir County. This deployment is intended to replace existing troops stationed there, as emphasized by various officials involved in the discussions. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth later informed the media of the leaders’ commitment to fostering national unity. “The leaders agreed to cooperate for the sake of the nation,” he stated.

The Information Minister also urged for community cooperation along the Malakal to Nasir route, advocating for local support to ensure the troops’ safe passage. Puot Kang, Minister of Petroleum and a prominent member of the SPLM-IO, reiterated this appeal, emphasizing the necessity for residents to assist the forces in reaching their designated barracks without incidents for the sake of peace.

Civil society representative Edmond Yakani described the meeting as “positive and cordial,” noting its dedication to public education on peace’s importance. He stated, “This dialogue is a step forward in fostering understanding and unity among communities.”

The Presidency has issued a broader appeal against the dissemination of harmful propaganda on social media, cautioning that such actions could exacerbate existing tensions. This meeting emerges amid rising instability in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County, where conflicts have sporadically arisen since February due to clashes between the SSPDF and the White Army.

Fears have surfaced among local communities that the additional troop deployments, including elements of the Agwelek militia, might lead to civilian targeting or disarmament campaigns. They have urged the government to dispatch the Necessary Unified Force, as stipulated in the 2018 peace accord, instead of the current personnel.

Recently increased unrest and insecurity in Western Equatoria State have been linked to the unilateral removal of SPLM-IO-affiliated governor Gen. Alfred Futuyo by President Kiir.

The high-level meeting convened by South Sudanese leaders reflects a concerted effort to ease tensions in conflict-prone areas and promote national unity. The deployment of the SSPDF aims to stabilize Nasir County, albeit with community cooperation and awareness of the existing social dynamics. The dialogue signifies progress toward peace, yet challenges persist as instability and conflict continue to threaten tranquility in the region. Advocacy for the Necessary Unified Force underscores the ongoing need for dialogue and strategic approaches in maintaining peace and security across South Sudan, particularly in Western Equatoria State.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org