UN Warns of Alarming Regression in South Sudan Amid Renewed Clashes

The UN warns of alarming regression in South Sudan amid recent clashes that threaten peace. President Kiir has called for calm, while officials urge a focus on democratic processes. The violent incidents raise serious concerns about the country’s stability and human rights.

The United Nations has raised alarms regarding South Sudan, describing the situation as one of “alarming regression” following recent violent clashes in the northeast. These confrontations threaten to reverse progress made towards peace, particularly affecting the fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.

The recent violence erupted in Upper Nile State, jeopardizing the stability of a power-sharing arrangement established in 2018 after five years of civil war. A United Nations helicopter was attacked while attempting a rescue operation, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to two others, highlighting the precarious security situation in the nation.

President Kiir called for calm while expressing commitment to avoid a return to war. In response to the escalating violence, Yasmin Sooka, chair of the UN human rights commission, urged leaders to prioritize the peace process and uphold the rights of citizens rather than allow conflict to deepen.

Despite the hope brought by the 2018 agreement, tensions have resurfaced as Kiir’s allies accuse Machar’s forces of collaborating with the White Army, a militia group associated with his ethnic community. Commissioner Barney Afako emphasized that the current power struggles reflect past turmoil and state that the South Sudanese populace deserves stability and peace, not another conflict.

The African Union also denounced the hostilities, calling for an immediate cessation of violence and expressing concern over the deteriorating conditions in South Sudan. It is crucial for leaders to refocus efforts on peace and democratic transitions to prevent further suffering in the nation.

In conclusion, South Sudan faces significant challenges as it confronts internal conflicts threatening its peace process. Both the United Nations and African Union have emphasized the need for an immediate end to hostilities and a renewed commitment to democratic principles. The current regression not only endangers past progress but also jeopardizes the future stability of the world’s youngest nation.

Original Source: www.newarab.com