UNMISS condemns violation of South Sudan peace agreement
September 3, 2015 (JUBA) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has condemned the violations of the compromise peace accord on resolution of the South Sudanese conflict, urging the warring parties to take all necessary steps to meet their obligations.
“Heavy explosions, including mortar shells, as well as heavy artillery and small arms fire were also heard coming from Malakal towards areas located on the west bank,” Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN secretary general said in a brief statement.
“UNMISS also reports instances of firing in Malakal earlier today [Thursday],” he added, without revealing the forces involved.
The UN vowed to continue protecting civilians in Malakal, including at its protection sites, through regular patrols in town and the airport.
REBELS BLAME GOVERNMENT
Meanwhile, a division within the armed opposition faction (SPLM-IO) accused government forces of allegedly attacking their positions in Lelo and Warjok villages on the west bank of the While Nile River.
The military spokesperson of the SPLM-IO, Col. William Gatjiath Deng said forces loyal to President Salva Kiir used gunships to shell their bases in Upper Nile state at various time intervals on Thursday.
“The regime forces in Malakal shelled the same areas using artillery, D-30s, tanks. A force of 250 government soldiers crossed to the west bank to attack our said bases. Fighting will start soon,” Deng said in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune.
“These acts are blatant violations of the permanent ceasefire which may lead to unraveling of the peace agreement,” he added.
Reiterating the armed opposition’s commitment to the ceasefire deal, Deng urged the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)-Plus, African Union and the international community to halt the violation of the permanent ceasefire by government.
(ST)