South Sudan claims UN “not cooperating” with military

October 29, 2015 (JUBA) – A South Sudanese army (SPLA) official has accused the United Nations mission in the country (UNMISS) of “not cooperating” with members of the military.

The army spokesperson, Col. Phillip Aguer, claimed the mission refused to cooperate with the government’s military command after being granted river transport from Juba to Malakal, the oil-rich Upper Nile state capital.

“On 20th October this month, UNMISS requested a green light to use the barges on the river Nile from the deputy chief of [military] staffs of operations which was granted to them,” Aguer told reporters in Juba on Thursday.

“The UN refused South Sudan to take SPLA liaison officers to accompany their mission through the river transport,” he added.

However, the spokesperson for the UN mission, Ariene Quentier downplayed claims made by the army, saying a statement would be issued on the contentious matter.

“The [armed] opposition are holding hostage 16 [UN] peacekeepers. As of those accusations [of failing to cooperate with South Sudan army], the UNMISS will send out a statement soon,” she Sudan Tribune over phone.

This is not the first time the army is putting the world body in the spot light. Last year, the military accused the UN having attempted to supply weapons after some undeclared weapons were allegedly confiscated in Lakes state.

The Security Council recently extended for two months the mandate its South Sudan mission. The resolution passed with support of majority of the Council member. UNMISS is among others, mandated to protect civilians under threat of physical violence, irrespective of the source of such violence, within its capacity and areas of deployment, with specific protection for women and children, including through the continued use of the mission’s child protection and women protection advisers.

(ST)