Peacekeepers not withdrawing from civilian sites in Malakal: UNMISS
November 10, 202 (JUBA) – A spokesperson for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has described as “incorrect” reports that it plans to withdraw its security presence from the protection of civilian sites in Malakal.
“A press statement claiming that the United Nations Mission in South Sudan is “withdrawing” its security presence from the Protection of Civilians site in Malakal is incorrect and risks causing unnecessary concern among the displaced community,” Francesca Mold said in a statement on Wednesday.
According to UNMISS, the “inaccurate” report follows a discussion held in Malakal on 5 November 2021 as part of ongoing consultation about the future of the protection of civilians’ sites with stakeholders, including the governor and other local authorities, UNMISS, humanitarian partners, and representatives from the displaced community.
“During the discussion, UNMISS reiterated its very clear position, in line with Security Council Resolution 2567, that the right security conditions must exist in Malakal before any transition of the POC can take place and reinforced its commitment to work with the Government to build its capability to provide protection for vulnerable communities,” UNMISS further noted in the statement.
The mission, however, assured that it would continue to fulfil its mandate to protect civilians in Malakal as in other locations across the country.
“No announcement was made about a decision to “withdraw” from the Malakal POC and it is unfortunate that this erroneous claim has been reported by the media as fact,” it stressed.
The protection of civilians’ sites was established by the UN to provide sanctuary to vulnerable civilians facing an imminent threat of physical violence during intense conflict. There is no doubt many lives were saved as a result of this action. However, the POCs were a last resort, not a long-term solution.
According to the mission, the peace agreement and continuing ceasefire has resulted in a significant reduction of political violence and, as a result, many displaced people have returned to their homes while those remaining in the UN protection sites are moving freely in and out of the camps to go to school, health centres, markets and to work.
Almost 20,000 peacekeepers are serving with the UNMISS to protect civilians and build durable peace in the conflict-affected country. The civilian, police and military personnel from 73 countries carry out many duties under the mandate provided by the UN Security Council (UNSC).
(ST)