S. Sudan: UN condemns tribal attacks, supports peaceful disarmament
By Julius N. Uma
March 13, 2012 (JUBA) – The UN has strongly condemned the recent attacks in South Sudan border areas with Ethiopia, urging all those involved to exercise restraint and put an end to the inter-communal violence which resulted into several deaths, injuries and lost cattle.
Following the attack, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reportedly dispatched patrols with medical teams to Akobo and Wanding areas to determine the circumstances of the clashes and to provide medical aid.
In a statement extended to Sudan Tribune, Hilde Johnson, the Special Representative to the Secretary General (SRSG) in the country, described the attack as “unacceptable” saying the cycle of violence greatly undermines the recently instituted peace committee.
The committee, which was formed by the national government, will work on establishing peace and reconciliation between the communities in the troubled South Sudan’s largest state of Jonglei.
Johnson’s remarks came a day after South Sudan President; Salva Kiir officially launched the much-hyped voluntary and simultaneous civilian disarmament process in Bor, the Jonglei state capital. Both actions aim at breaking the cycle of deadly violence in the area.
The UN expressed support towards the disarmament, it says the process will only be successful, if carried out as part of a comprehensive approach to peace, justice and reconciliation, and includes protection of the communities by security forces.
“UNMISS will support a peaceful civilian disarmament process which involves communities voluntarily giving up their illegal weapons following sensitization from local community leaders and government officials,” Johnson said prior to the launch.
It urged community leaders, government officials and security forces to ensure the disarmament process is undertaken in an orderly and safe manner, with respect for basic human rights.
While both UN peacekeepers and civilian teams will be present to monitor developments during the disarmament period, Johnson urged communities to cooperate and ensure that these important initiatives are successfully implemented.
Johnson also said the government should effectively carry out its responsibility to protect the civilian population, an initiative she described as key for establishing long term peace and stability in Jonglei.
(ST)