S. Sudan opposition party warns over worsening humanitarian crisis

July 03, 2015 (WAU) – The leadership of South Sudan’s opposition People Liberal Party (PLP) has expressed concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation in the country.

James Nen Thoat, the party vice-president called on the two warring factions to facilitate easy operation of humanitarian organisations assisting citizens affected by conflict in various areas.

“We deeply concerned about continued violation of humanitarian work. We call upon the government and security organs in the country to facilitate humanitarian works to deliver humanitarian needs to victims of the conflict,” said Thoat.

“There is a need for assistance even to areas which are not more affected by the conflict and in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The entire country is affected,” stressed the PLP vice-president.

Meanwhile, PLP leader, Peter Mayen called for full support and cooperation from government to facilitate the work of aid agencies.

“Government needs to understand that it is their responsibility to provide for their citizen not non-governmental organisations, the United Nations and other humanitarian agencies. Their help should be appreciated and facilitated with a conducive environment to enable them deliver services to the needy people,” said Mayen.

He cited insecurity and the alleged lack of political will to facilitate humanitarian efforts as main causes of these humanitarian crises.

The opposition party boss condemned in the strongest term what he described as unfair treatment meted on aid workers in the country.

Tens of thousands of people have been killed and nearly two million displaced since violence erupted in the South Sudan capital, Juba nearly 20 months ago. The chaos came in the wake of internal struggles in the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

(ST).