By Yiep Joseph
South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) has urged its forces in cantonment areas to distance themselves from any involvement in the ongoing military confrontations in the country.
According to a statement seen by this outlet, the SSOA leadership council convened a meeting on Monday to discuss the crisis in Upper Nile, particularly in Ulang and Nasir counties.
The meeting, chaired by Leadership Council Chair and Vice President Josephine Joseph Lagu, resulted in four resolutions, including a directive for the forces to abstain from engaging in the current crisis.
“The meeting) directs all SSOA Armed Forces in the cantonment areas to refrain from any involvement in the ongoing military crisis” the statement partly read.
The group announced plans to meet with President Salva Kiir to discuss potential solutions to the crisis in Upper Nile.
They emphasized the need for an urgent meeting with the President to explore ways forward, aligning with their shared commitment to lasting peace and stability in the country.
The SSOA expressed appreciation to the President for his call for calm in the nation despite the ongoing challenges.
They urged all guarantors to engage with the peace parties to address and resolve areas of disagreement among them.
Recently the African Union (AU) called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and accountability in South Sudan following escalating violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State and other regions.
In a statement, AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed deep concern over the clashes, including a deadly attack on a UN helicopter, warning that the unrest threatens the country’s fragile peace process.
Mahamat condemned the violence, urging all parties to exercise restraint. He emphasised the need for authorities to hold those responsible accountable and take urgent measures to protect civilians.
“The African Union Commission is currently consulting with the authorities, IGAD, and other stakeholders on common actions to ensure a de-escalation of the situation,” he said.
He also reiterated the AU’s long-standing call for South Sudanese parties to fully implement the Revitalised Peace Agreement, stressing that peace, unity and stability in the country depend on its execution.