IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, urged dialogue and restraint in South Sudan amid rising tensions and armed clashes in Nasir County, warning that they threaten the Revitalised Peace Agreement. IGAD plans to assess the situation and reinforce commitments to peacekeeping and civilian protection.
The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, has urged for restraint and dialogue in response to escalating tensions in South Sudan. He expressed significant concern regarding the recent clashes in Nasir County, stating that these developments threaten both the hard-earned progress made under the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the overall peace in the nation.
Gebeyehu called on all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint, reaffirm their commitment to the R-ARCSS, and prioritize dialogue and reconciliation as essential for achieving lasting peace. He emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and maintaining regional stability. To address the situation, IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to assess the circumstances and engage with the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity to restore calm and further the peace process.
Recent clashes occurred between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed civilian groups, primarily in Nasir County. Tensions have heightened following the government’s announcement to deploy new troops to the area, which has led to over 20 recorded fatalities and multiple injuries near the now-deserted town of Nasir, situated close to the border with Ethiopia. IGAD reiterated its commitment to supporting the full implementation of the revitalized peace accord to ensure stability in South Sudan.
In conclusion, IGAD’s Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has highlighted the urgent need for restraint and constructive dialogue to alleviate the rising tensions in South Sudan. The ongoing clashes pose significant threats to the peace efforts established under the Revitalised Agreement. As IGAD plans to send a high-level delegation to engage with local authorities, the importance of prioritizing peace and protection for civilians remains paramount.
Original Source: ommcomnews.com
