Juba calls on Sudan to refrain from attacks on Abyei
December 11, 2014 (JUBA) – The South Sudanese government on Wednesday urged neigbouring Sudan to refrain from destabilising the disputed region of Abyei, saying renewed attacks undermine spirit of cooperation between the former war foes.
“The attacks which have been carried out in Abyei by Misseriya and the other armed groups undermine the spirit of cooperation and the resolve of the two countries to work together to find a lasting solution to the issue of Abyei,” he added.
The minister, speaking exclusively to Sudan Tribune, said he received reports that the civilian populations have been subjected to attacks in which at least seven lives were lost at the beginning of last week.
“Just this week alone seven innocent lives have been lost. Villages have been brought down to ashes and their properties have either been destroyed or taken away by the attackers. I am told more than 100 cows have been looted in the last attack which occurred on Tuesday,” said Gbandi.
“The situation is deteriorating and this is becoming a big concern for us as the government and calling on the government of Sudan to restrain these people from carrying out attacks and take complete responsibility,” he further said.
Justice Deng Biong, a senior official, said three people were killed and four wounded in the attack, which occurred north of Abyei town.
The incident, he said, occurred Tuesday evening when armed men suspected to be members of the rival Misseriya attacked Majak village, killing two boys, an old man and injuring three other women. Majak is the headquarter of the traditional leadership.
“Five other children who were frightened when the village came under fire and ran away remain missing while of the 181 initially taken, 176 were later recovered by the United Nations interim force for Abyei,” said Biong.
The official, however, called on the two governments of South Sudan and Sudan to resume negotiations so that a solution can be found to the conflict, which has since claimed several lives and properties.
Since May 2011, Abyei has been devoid of a functional administration after Sudanese forces took control of the area, displacing from the region nearly 105,000 people.
The Security Council in a statement issued on Thursday called on the two countries to “unconditionally” resume negotiations under the auspices of the AUHIP, to reach agreement on critical issues, including final status of the Abyei.
The 15-member body further urged the IGAD and the African Union and the UNISFA support the two countries to expedite the implementation of the outstanding administrative and security elements of the June 2011 Agreement.
(ST)