By Bosco Bush
Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) has condemned the recent resurgence of attacks and killings of civilians across the country, calling for immediate deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) to ensure adequate security for the population.
On Wednesday, authorities in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, reported that an attack by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) had resulted in the deaths of four civilians, including a woman. At least 14 others, primarily women and children, were injured in the incident.
Nasir County Commissioner James Gatluak described the attack as a deliberate act of violence perpetrated against civilians by the SSPDF.
CPA condemned the grave incident and blamed the national army for what it termed as the “unacceptable behaviour displayed by the national army” which is contrary to their constitutional mandate to protect civilians.
It calls for an expedited process to unify the various armed forces into one national army with a cohesive national character and urges for accountability for those who continue to engage in offensive and provocative actions.
The Center for Peace and Advocacy pointed at the country’s leaders to collaboratively work for a lasting peace enjoyable for all citizens.
“Both President Kiir and Machar, along with four Vice Presidents should not be complacent at J1 while the country is in turmoil. We need true peace that all citizens can enjoy, rather than the selective peace currently prevailing in South Sudan,” reads part of the statement.
In separate incidents similarly, over 24 youths in Wonduruba Administrative Area and Kulipapa, Ganji Payam were brutally killed and 19 others injured on October 9.
Meanwhile, at least 20 people were killed and 38 others wounded on Saturday, October 14, during intense inter-communal fighting in Tonj North County of Warrap State, according to state officials.