A joint delegation from the UN, the African Union, the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), the European Union and Troika have visited unity state and calling amicable solution to the conflict in the area.
The diplomats say their mission was to witness the situation paid solidary to the people of Leer and Mirmir following clashes in the past weeks that left dozens of civilians dead, many wounded and hundreds displaced from their homes.
On Monday, a fresh clash triggered by cattle raiding was reported between armed youth from Koch, Mayendit and Leer counties that killed 20 people
in a joint statement, the delegation said they had constructive and frank discussions with the Governor of Unity State, the County Commissioners of Koch, Leer and Mayendit, along with traditional leaders, women, youth, and others directly impacted by the conflict.
“The joint delegation heard accusations and counteraccusations on the atrocities committed leading to deaths, injuries, abductions, sexual violence against women, displacements as well as the destruction of civilian property and the burning of schools.”
The peace monitors has welcomed the announcement by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, of a high-level investigation committee and the deployment of SSPDF to help restore security in the area. The joint delegation supports government efforts towards restoring the rule of law and holding perpetrators to account. The joint delegation stands ready to support the committee in its work and urges the investigation committee to deploy swiftly to the area.
The joint delegation called on national and state authorities to urgently take additional measures to protect civilians and to address the root causes of the conflict.
They recalls for expeditious graduation of the unified forces to help fill security gaps at the local level. The delegation appealed to local and national leaders to use their influence to deescalate the violence, deterring any actions that may further inflame tensions, and encourage healing and reconciliation among communities.
The delegation commended UNMISS for deploying additional peacekeepers to patrol the affected areas to prevent additional loss of life by providing protection to the displaced and vulnerable people. It further commended UNMISS for facilitating access to humanitarian agencies that are responding to the needs of affected communities.
International Community call for a peaceful resolution to current tensions in Unity State. “While violence has ebbed, any further mobilization could threaten a resumption of the clashes and risks additional delays in the implementation of the security arrangements of the peace agreement.”
The joint delegation reaffirms its commitment to remain seized with efforts towards overall peace in the country.