The Troika has warned of a renewed clashes in Upper Nile – citing ” indications of preparation” in the restive state.
The Troika, which comprises of Norway, the United States, and the United Kingdom – has not expounded on its concern, but Upper Nile has been witnessing clashes between armed opposition groups.
“South Sudanese transitional leaders and political actors in Juba have a responsibility to act to prevent this and to find peaceful and sustainable solutions,” it says in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Since 2021, there have been military clashes in the area involving armed forces of SPLM-IO Kitwang factions of Simon Gatwich and Johnson Olony – which have claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands.
But from November 17 to December 9, 2022, fighting between the tribal militias intensified, displacing about 40,000 people from their homes in the town of Kodok, the UNOCHA said in a report.
On December 14, 2022, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed serious concern that the violence risked spreading beyond the region.
” They South Sudanese leaders] also bear responsibility for ensuring the continued safe access and delivery of humanitarian assistance,” Troika continues.
In December 2022, the UN Mission in South Sudan warned of similar clashes in greater Jonglei, but the government leaders ignored it.
On Christmas Eve, youth from Jonglei attacked Pibor Administrative Area, leaving dozens killed, women and children abducted, and cattle raided.
“We also call on South Sudan’s leaders to hold accountable those responsible for previous subnational violence, including the most recent clashes in Upper Nile, Jonglei, and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. This includes those who have engaged in human rights violations, abductions, and human trafficking,” Troika adds.