Opposition alliance decries Malakal violence, blames government

JUBA – South Sudan’s National Consensus Forum (NCF), a coalition of opposition groups, strongly condemned the recent inter-communal clashes in Malakal between Shilluk and two subsections of the Apadang Dinka.

The NCF, representing 21 South Sudanese groups, expressed grief over the loss of life and property in the violence.

According to senior state government officials, community leaders and academics, the death toll of the violence which begun after the killing of four Shilluk fishermen at Both (also known as Khor Nyingar) was eight as of Sunday.

In a statement extended to Sudans Post yesterday, NCF expressed condolences on the deceased and described it as a preventable incident.

“The NCF extends its deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in this horrific conflict,” the group’s statement read. “This tragedy could have been prevented with timely intervention by the South Sudanese government.”

The NCF accused President Salva Kiir’s administration of fostering inter-communal violence for “political gain and survival.” They emphasized the government’s responsibility to protect citizens and maintain peace.

“The rise in such violence between communities with a history of peaceful coexistence exposes the government’s political failure and lack of commitment to lasting peace,” the NCF asserted.

The statement described the situation as a “brutal regime” and called for a unified response from South Sudanese and the international community.

“We urge all community and national leaders, youth, faith-based groups, women’s organizations, and the international community to join hands to stop this senseless conflict,” the NCF appealed.

“Immediate action is needed to initiate an inclusive dialogue and reconciliation process that can restore peace and stability in Malakal and across the country.”

The NCF concluded by reiterating their hope for peaceful coexistence, good governance, and development in South Sudan.