By Philip Buda Ladu
UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has warned that the country’s fragile peace prospects are being undermined by rampant impunity, corruption, and a lack of political accountability.
In a statement delivered to the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, the Commission expressed deep concern over the recent extension of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Commission’s Chairperson, Yasmin Sooka stated that it has further exacerbated the country’s dire human rights situation.
“The crucial issue facing South Sudanese is not merely delay or lack of elections: it is the sabotage of the democratic transformation they are entitled to,” Sooka said.
The Commission emphasized that the delay in elections and the ongoing failure to implement key provisions of the agreement have exacerbated the country’s humanitarian and economic crises.
“South Sudanese are suffering immensely,” said Commissioner Barney Afako, adding that. “They are tired of waiting for political leaders to end their obfuscation and deliver on their human rights obligations.”
The Commission highlighted several key issues including ongoing armed violence fueled by ethnic tensions, including sexual violence, the use of child soldiers, and extrajudicial killings, which continue to plague the country. This triggers continuous displacement of civilians leading to widespread human suffering
It stated that the lack of accountability for past and present human rights abuses fuels cycles of violence and emboldens perpetrators and fuels cycles of violence.
It further noted widespread corruption and the diversion of public funds have crippled essential services and exacerbated economic hardship and poverty.
The government’s failure to establish key transitional justice mechanisms, such as the Hybrid Court, hinders efforts to address the legacy of conflict and prevent future violence.
The Commission urged South Sudan’s political leaders to take immediate steps to address these challenges including; Promoting a credible and participatory constitution-making process, implementing robust justice mechanisms to hold perpetrators accountable, taking decisive action to curb corruption and ensure transparent governance.
Additionally, prioritizing the protection of human rights, especially for women and girls and ending violence; working towards a lasting peace and ending violent political competition.
UN Member States and the international community were called upon to renew their support for South Sudan and demand concrete actions to address the ongoing crisis.
As South Sudan faces a critical juncture, the world watches with growing concern. The future of the country hangs in the balance, and the choices made by its leaders will determine whether it can finally break free from the cycle of violence and corruption.