By Jacob Onuha Nelson
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged for calm among parties to 2018 peace deal following recent clashes in Upper Nile and Western Equatoria states.
This concern came after the South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) and armed youth fought in Nasir of Upper Nile state, which led to killing of four soldiers, and thirteen others injured.
Last week, clashes erupted in Western Equatoria State when SSPDF allegedly attacked the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO)’ cantonment sites, an allegation army denied.
In a press release seen by No.1 Citizen Newspaper, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom condemned the clashes and called for restraint.
“I urge all involved to demonstrate restraint and immediately restore calm. I also strongly condemn any violence against our peacekeepers and reiterate that such actions constitute a violation of international law,” he said.
The UNMISS boss appealed to government to expedite deployment of unified forces to quell tension.
“The UNMISS urges the government to adhere to the critical importance of the full and rapid deployment of necessary Unified forces, in accordance with the Revitalized Peace Agreement,” he echoed.
Besides, Mr. Haysom hinted that as country enters the fourth extension parties must accelerate in implementing the remaining provisions.
“Vitally, as South Sudan commences the fourth extension of its Transitional period on 22nd February parties must apply the agreement and urgently progress the implementation since it remains the only route toward a permanent peace,” he continued.
UN reaffirmed its commitment to its mandate in preaching peace, and engaging with communities and authorities in affected areas to reduce tension in the country.