The chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has expressed “deep” concern over the deteriorating security situation in parts of South Sudan/
This comes amid reports of escalating tensions and violence in Jonglei State, which have led to the displacement of large numbers of civilians.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the chairperson said he is gravely alarmed by reports of inflammatory rhetoric and actions that risk inciting further violence and placing civilian populations, including women and children, at heightened risk.
The chairperson condemned any calls for, or acts of, violence against civilians and reiterates that the protection of civilians remains a fundamental responsibility of all parties to the conflict.
According to Youssouf, such developments run counter to the letter and spirit of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
While noting the continued public commitments by South Sudanese leaders to the peace process, the chairperson expressed serious concern over ongoing violations of the permanent ceasefire deal and their adverse humanitarian impact.
The chairperson further called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately de-escalate tensions, and fully comply with their obligations under the R-ARCSS including strict adherence to ceasefire arrangements, respect for agreed power-sharing mechanisms, and a return to inclusive, consensus-based decision-making.
He also urged South Sudanese stakeholders to place the interests of the people of South Sudan above all other considerations and to resolve outstanding differences through dialogue and peaceful means, with a view to ensuring the successful completion of the transitional period.
MG/as/APA