AU, peace partners assess security situation in Unity State
May 18, 2022 (JUBA/BENTIU) – A joint delegation from the African Union (AU), the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), the African Diplomatic Corps (ADC), the European Union (EU) and its members states, the Troika and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) conducted a high-level solidarity and diplomatic mission to Bentiu, Leer and Mirmir of South Sudan’s Unity State on 12 May 2022.
The visit follows the recent clashes in Adok Port and surrounding areas.
The joint delegation, according to a statement extended to Sudan Tribune, had constructive and frank discussions with the Governor of Unity State, the County Commissioners of Koch, Leer and Mayendit, along with traditional leaders, women, youth and others directly impacted by the recent conflict.
“The joint delegation heard accusations and counteraccusations on the atrocities committed leading to deaths, injuries, abductions, sexual violence against women, displacements as well as the destruction of civilian property and the burning of schools,” partly reads the statement.
The joint delegation reportedly expressed its solidarity with the people and South Sudan government and welcomed the announcement by President Salva Kiir of a high-level investigation committee and the deployment of the South Sudanese army (SSPDF) to help restore security in the area.
“The joint delegation supports government efforts towards restoring the rule of law and holding perpetrators to account. The joint delegation stands ready to support the committee in its work and urges the investigation committee to deploy swiftly to the area,” further noted the statement.
Meanwhile, the joint delegation called on national and state authorities to urgently take additional measures to protect civilians and to address the root causes of the conflict, while also stressing that the expeditious graduation of the unified forces would help fill security gaps at local levels.
They appealed to local and national leaders to use their influence to deescalate the violence, deterring any actions that may further inflame tensions, and encourage healing and reconciliation among communities.
However, the joint delegation commended UNMISS for deploying additional peacekeepers to patrol the affected areas to prevent additional loss of life by providing protection to the displaced and vulnerable people, lauding the UN for facilitating access to humanitarian agencies that are responding to the needs of affected communities.
The team called for a peaceful resolution to current tensions in Unity State, saying any further mobilization could threaten a resumption of the clashes and risks additional delays in the implementation of the security arrangements of Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
The joint delegation of the AU, EU, ADC UNMISS and R-JMEC reaffirmed its commitment to remain seized with efforts towards overall peace in the young nation.
(ST)