The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, has expressed grave concern over the escalating violence and tensions in South Sudan, particularly in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. The violence, which includes a deadly attack on a UN helicopter, has further destabilized the region, with additional clashes reported in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el-Ghazal. These developments threaten the fragile peace process in the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat strongly condemned the escalation of violence, calling it a severe setback to the peace efforts in South Sudan. He urged all parties involved to exercise the highest level of restraint and underscored the importance of holding the perpetrators of such attacks accountable. He also called for swift action by the authorities to ensure the protection of citizens from further harm.
“The African Union strongly condemns the escalation of violence and the targeting of UN personnel, which undermines the peace process and the safety of innocent civilians,” said Chairperson Faki Mahamat. “It is crucial that the authorities act swiftly and decisively to address these security challenges and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The African Union Chairperson reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the full adherence to the existing ceasefire agreements. He further emphasized the urgent need for all parties to engage in meaningful national dialogue, as the country’s stability hinges on the resolution of these tensions through peaceful and inclusive discussions.
To help de-escalate the situation, the African Union Commission is actively consulting with South Sudanese authorities, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other stakeholders on coordinated actions to reduce the violence and prevent further destabilization.
Chairperson Faki Mahamat also reaffirmed the African Union’s longstanding call for the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS), a pivotal accord aimed at bringing lasting peace and stability to South Sudan. He emphasized that the success of the peace process is essential for the future of the country, stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence, national unity, and collective responsibility for all South Sudanese citizens.
“The African Union remains committed to supporting the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, as it is central to ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for South Sudan,” he added. “We stand with the people of South Sudan and will continue to work alongside them and other partners to achieve a lasting peace.”
The African Union’s statement underscores the urgency of resolving the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, which has plagued the country since its independence in 2011. Despite the signing of peace agreements in recent years, sporadic violence continues to threaten the prospects for stability and development in the world’s youngest nation.
