UN urges parties to de-escalate hostilities in Unity State

JUBA – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged all parties to immediately de-escalate hostilities and pursue peaceful means of resolving disputes following recent fighting and troop movements in Leer and Guit counties of Unity State.

These conflicts have resulted in civilian displacement and casualties.

Tensions in Leer County escalated following the defection of former Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-opposition (SPLA-IO) commander Simon Maguek Gai Majak and approximately 200 soldiers to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) on October 7^th.

On Tuesday, November 28^th, at least seven soldiers, including a Brigadier General, were killed in clashes between the SPLA-IO and the SSPDF led by Simon Maguek Gai.

Addressing the monthly RJMEC Plenary meeting in Juba on Thursday, Mr. Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, expressed concern about the violence reported in the Abyei Administrative Area, Warrap State, and Leer and Guit counties of Unity State.

He noted the displacement and casualties inflicted upon civilians.

“We reiterate that military defections threaten and undermine trust between the parties. We also caution against the temptation towards unilateral actions and that the parties should take measures to de-escalate hostilities, using peaceful means to resolve disputes,” he said.

He welcomed the recent deployment of 750 unified forces to Upper Nile State and expressed encouragement regarding reports of further deployments planned for the future.

“However, we continue to encourage the Government to give Chapter Two the necessary funds and attention to ensure a cohesive, structured security sector that can protect civilians and provide a secure environment,” he added.