De-escalate Jonglei tensions, UN urges gov’t

JUBA – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGONU) to immediately dive in to address the escalating tensions in Jonglei state which witnessed the killing of at least 32 people last month.

In remarks during the monthly meeting of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Guang Cong, said ethnic violence has continued in most parts of South Sudan and expressed concerns on it.

“Intercommunal conflict continues in South Sudan, perpetuating cycles of trauma and revenge that undermine the prospects for longer-term reconciliation and healing. The recent escalation of conflict in greater Jonglei remains a concern,” he said.

He urged the government in Juba to immediately address the communal violence in the states and reiterated UNMISS readiness to support the national and state government in addressing these problems.

“I therefore call on the Government to de-escalate the situation, protect its citizens and end impunity for cycles of violence,” he said.

“UNMISS will continue to work closely with state and national authorities, grassroot communities, and stakeholders of the local peace processes to promote peace through dialogue and reconciliation,” he added.