The UN has called for calm in South Sudan following deadly clashes in Upper Nile state, where fighting between the SSPSF and armed groups led to civilian casualties and injuries to a peacekeeper. UNMISS reports the use of heavy weaponry and highlights ongoing tensions in the country. Nicholas Haysom emphasized the need for restraint and urged for the unification of South Sudan’s armed forces to mitigate further violence.
The United Nations has issued a call for calm following reports of violent clashes in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state. According to the UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), fighting erupted between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPSF) and armed groups in Nasir on February 14 and 15, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries to a peacekeeper. The unrest has raised concerns over the ongoing instability in the nation since its independence in 2011.
UNMISS highlighted that the clashes involved heavy weaponry, leading to injuries among both civilians and military personnel; however, specific casualty numbers were not disclosed. A UN peacekeeper was injured during mortar attacks while on regular patrol. Nicholas Haysom, the special representative of the UN Secretary-General, emphasized the necessity for restraint and called for an end to hostilities, condemning the violence aimed at peacekeeping forces.
The statement also pointed to escalating tensions in Western Equatoria state involving organized military forces. Haysom remarked that these recent developments highlight the urgency for the complete integration of South Sudan’s unified armed forces. The country, which has experienced a tumultuous civil war, is still in the process of implementing a 2018 peace agreement that stipulated the unification of its military ahead of postponed elections.
The recent clashes in South Sudan underscore the ongoing volatility in the region, exacerbated by unresolved military unification efforts stemming from a previous peace agreement. The UN’s call for restraint and peace is pivotal in addressing rising violence against not only civilians but also peacekeeping personnel. The broader implications of this unrest signify the need for immediate measures to stabilize the country as it navigates its post-conflict recovery.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
