IGAD Urges Ceasefire Amid Rising Violence in South Sudan’s Nasir County

IGAD diplomats have expressed concern over escalating violence in Nasir County, South Sudan, urging all parties to cease hostilities to protect the revitalized peace agreement. The violence has resulted in casualties and heightened tensions following the government’s announcement to deploy new forces, which locals fear may target civilians. The situation jeopardizes humanitarian efforts and the peace accord’s achievements.

Diplomats from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an East African organization, expressed significant concern regarding the rising armed violence in Nasir County, South Sudan’s Upper Nile State. Their collective statement, issued in Juba, warns that escalating tensions and violent clashes may jeopardize the potential for a lasting peace agreement.

The IGAD envoys, representing Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Uganda, urged immediate cessation of hostilities and called for maximum restraint from all involved parties and affiliated groups. This situation follows clashes that commenced in mid-February between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and armed civilian factions in the area, resulting in over 20 fatalities and significant displacement.

Increased tensions arose after the government announced the introduction of new forces to Nasir County to replace troops that had been stationed there for several years. Local communities are apprehensive that these new forces may target civilians or initiate disarmament campaigns. The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism has reported a marked deterioration in the security situation in Upper Nile State in recent weeks.

The IGAD diplomats highlighted the critical threat posed to the achievements of the revitalized peace agreement, which have been hard-fought. They emphasized the necessity of maintaining the permanent ceasefire and adhering to the peace agreement’s provisions, advocating for sustained dialogue and consultations within this framework.

In summary, the IGAD diplomats have called for immediate actions to cease hostilities in Nasir County, aiming to safeguard peace efforts in South Sudan. The ongoing violence poses significant risks to the stability of the region and exacerbates existing humanitarian challenges. Continuous dialogue is crucial to uphold the peace agreement and promote security in the area.

Original Source: www.independent.co.ug