Inter-communal violence in South Sudan extends beyond sporadic conflicts; it is a persistent cycle fueled by economic hardships and other factors.
This violence is often orchestrated by powerful politicians who manipulate vulnerable communities for their own gain, using tactics like child abduction and cattle raiding to further their agendas.
The responsibility lies with the government to protect these communities before they resort to harming innocent civilians. For instance, the ongoing violence between armed youth in Jonglei State and the Pibor Administrative Area exemplifies this tragic cycle.
When armed youth from Jonglei kill civilians or abduct children, their counterparts in Pibor retaliate in kind. The response from authorities is often lacking, resulting in a shocking death toll that remains largely unreported.
In South Sudan today, inter-communal violence is deeply politicized, creating confusion about the underlying causes. Many youths, manipulated by politicians, are unaware of how their actions serve the interests of those in power. Each state is governed by officials—governors, commissioners, mayors, and chiefs—who are tasked with the welfare of citizens but often fail to intervene meaningfully.
To halt this cycle of violence, the government must undertake a comprehensive disarmament of cattle raiders and civilians. Only through the removal of weapons can we hope to achieve lasting peace and prevent further killings and abductions.
All firearms should be collected and stored securely to avoid the repercussions of an arms embargo, which could hinder the development of a unified national army. This disarmament would represent a step toward effectively implementing peace agreements.
Moreover, deploying a unified national army under one command can help reduce incidents of abduction, killing, and sexual violence against vulnerable populations, including women and children. Armed youth must cease their attacks on civilians. The issue extends beyond just youth; it includes rebels, government soldiers, and unknown gunmen, all contributing to a climate of fear.
The government must be held accountable for failing to take decisive action against these acts of violence. Human rights organizations should take this issue seriously, as the presence of firearms in civilian hands often leads to land grabs and targeted killings.
I urge the national government and international peace monitors to recognize this year as an opportunity for change, not conflict. The unnecessary killings must stop. Those responsible for these crimes should be held accountable. The situation, as reported by UNMISS, is dire and requires immediate attention.
God Protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator