The UNMISS Force Commander, Lt. Gen Mohan Subramanian, emphasizes the urgent need to prevent civil war in South Sudan amid rising violence. He highlights the humanitarian crisis affecting millions and the threats posed by misinformation. Protecting civilians and facilitating aid is critical in the current precarious environment.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) Force Commander, Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian, expressed grave concerns regarding South Sudan’s precarious situation, indicating it is nearing a civil war. During his interview on April 16, 2025, he pointed out that the nation has experienced a deep history of conflict, having suffered two civil wars prior to and two post-independence. He emphasized the need to avert further suffering as the populace endures immense hardship due to past conflicts.
Amid rising violence and instability, Lt. Gen Subramanian reiterated the mission’s main priority, which is to protect innocent civilians trapped in conflict. He noted the urgency of safeguarding internally displaced persons and ensuring that humanitarian support is delivered to those who depend on it. With approximately 9.3 million South Sudanese reliant on aid, he highlighted the dire need for humanitarian assistance to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
While acknowledging South Sudan’s welcoming of refugees, the Force Commander warned that the country lacks the capacity to support the additional influx of 1.1 million people needing aid. As many citizens already struggle with poverty and require assistance, the growing humanitarian crisis could potentially spiral into a security threat, prompting violence if unattended.
Subramanian pointed out the alarming rise of misinformation, which poses a significant risk in fragile communities and can incite panic. He described how a fabricated message can lead to mass chaos among displaced individuals. To combat this threat, UNMISS has established an information integrity working group tasked with monitoring social media and swiftly intervening when necessary.
In conclusion, Lt. Gen Mohan Subramanian highlighted the alarming challenges facing South Sudan, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent a civil war and protect vulnerable populations. With extensive humanitarian needs and worsening conditions, it is crucial that international efforts continue to support both the mission’s protective mandate and the delivery of vital humanitarian aid. The impact of misinformation further complicates the situation, necessitating proactive measures to ensure stability and peace in the region.
Original Source: media.un.org
