AU urges S. Sudan’s warring parties to honour ceasefire
September 22, 2014 (JUBA) – The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) has reiterated its appeal to South Sudan’s warring parties to honour their commitments to a ceasefire deal they signed, as well as other subsequent accords.
The call came at the end of its 458th meeting held on 17 September, during which the council discussed the situation in South Sudan.
Last week, fresh fighting resumed in South Sudan’s Upper Nile state between government and rebel forces, sparking condemnation from East African regional bloc IGAD, which is mediating the peace process.
The AUPSC expressed deep concern over the lack of progress in the political negotiations, including non-compliance with the 60-day deadline for the formation of the transitional government of national unity, and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation.
South Sudanese stakeholders were expected to conclude negotiations on the necessary details to fully operationalise the set principles within six weeks, as agreed at an IGAD summit held in 25 August.
However, the regional body lauded efforts by IGAD under the chairmanship of Ethiopia’s prime minister, Hailemariam Dessalegn, as well as the team of special envoys, for their tireless efforts in the search for a lasting solution to the conflict in South Sudan.
The AUPSC has welcomed the resumption of IGAD-led talks between South Sudan’s multi-stakeholders on 15 September in the Ethiopian city of Bahir Dar, reminding those involved that their primary responsibility was ending the suffering of civilians and achieving lasting peace and reconciliation in the country.
It also reiterated its determination, in coordination with IGAD, to take the necessary measures against any party that fails to honour its commitments and continues to undermine the search for a negotiated solution to the current crisis.
The AUPC has also noted with concern the prevailing humanitarian situation in South Sudan, calling for renewed efforts to assist those affected by the crisis.
Thousands of people have died and nearly 1.5 million displaced in South Sudan since violence broke out in mid-December last year.
(ST)