UN Urges South Sudan Leaders to Pursue Dialogue Over Military Conflict

The UN calls on South Sudanese parties to engage in dialogue to prevent conflict, uphold the peace agreement, and proceed towards democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom warns of a possible civil war relapse due to rising tensions, urging leaders to address differences constructively and resolve grievances to maintain stability.

The United Nations calls upon the parties in South Sudan to prioritize dialogue and avoid military conflict, aiming to uphold the peace agreement and facilitate the country’s transition toward its first democratic elections. Nicholas Haysom, the UN Secretary-General’s special representative, expressed concerns about the nation nearing a potential relapse into civil war, which could jeopardize progress achieved since the signing of the Revitalized Agreement in 2018.

Haysom emphasized the importance of de-escalating political tensions promptly and reinforced that the Revitalized Agreement must be the foundation for peace. He pointed out the current fragility of the peace process and highlighted that violence in Upper Nile State, particularly the White Army militia’s takeover of the Nasir barracks, has heightened tensions nationwide. Senior officials of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition have faced arrests, while others have gone into hiding.

Moreover, air strikes on Nasir have reportedly led to civilian casualties and fueled the spread of disinformation and hate speech, raising fears of potential ethnic conflict. While Haysom acknowledged President Salva Kiir’s assurances against a return to war, he stressed the necessity for the parties to abide by the Revitalized Agreement to make this commitment a reality.

Haysom encouraged the African Union Security Council to facilitate constructive dialogue between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, urging them to present a united front for the nation while addressing their differences. He also called for the legal treatment or release of detained officials and emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve grievances and rebuild trust between the conflicting parties.

In conclusion, the UN urges South Sudanese leaders to favor dialogue over conflict in order to sustain peace and support the democratic transition. With rising tensions and violence, it is imperative for all stakeholders to commit to the Revitalized Agreement and engage in constructive discussions to foster national unity and restore trust among the populace. The continuation of the peace process is critical to preventing further instability in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw