UN calls on S. Sudan’s warring parties to cease hostilities “immediately”
January 28, 2014 (JUBA) – The United Nation has expressed concerns over reports of “sporadic” violence in part of South Sudan’s Upper Nile and Unity states, calling for immediate cessation of hostilities between the warring parties.
“It is critical that both parties implement the cessation of hostilities agreement in full and immediately,” Farhan Haq, a spokesperson for the UN Secretary General said Tuesday.
The UN mission in the country said it received reports on the deteriorating security situation in Unity state’s Koch and Leer counties, adding that its patrol team witnessed many burnt parts of these towns.
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The cause of the destruction could not immediately be established, although rebel groups blame pro-government soldiers loyal to President Salva Kiir for damages caused.
WORSENING HUMANITARIAN CRISIS
The UN humanitarian and emergency relief coordinator has openly decried the current humanitarian situation and impact of the violent conflict in the country.
Valerie Amos, who is currently in the country, however, said aid agencies were supporting government’s efforts to respond to the immediate crisis, but stressed the need to early preparations ahead of the April rainy seasons.
According to the world body, at least 79,000 people, are still being sheltered at eight of its bases in the country, with half of them reportedly camping at the two Juba sites.
South Sudan witnessed the worst violence in its post-cessation history, when a dispute among the presidential guards in the capital on December 15 spread to three of its 10 states, killing over 1,000 people and displacing more than half a million.
(ST)