By Lodu William Odiya
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has yesterday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities following reports of renewed fighting and rising tensions in Eastern Equatoria state.
These incidents followed recent intercommunal violence, cattle raids and reported aerial bombardment in Ulang and Baliet counties, Upper Nile state, which have resulted in civilian deaths, injuries and displacement.
According to a statement issued by the mission yesterday, UNMISS reminds all parties that such violence directly contravenes commitments under the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
“These escalations must stop immediately,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge of UNMISS.
“We call on all parties to pull back, engage in dialogue and allow humanitarian partners unhindered access to those in need” statement partly read.
Kiki Further emphasized that host authorities must uphold their responsibility to prevent conflict, protect civilians and respond to community needs, especially at a time when UNMISS has been required to close its field office in Torit due to the UN-wide financial crisis.
She underscored the Mission had strengthened patrols in and around hotspots, and continues to work with all stakeholders, including authorities and communities, to deter further harm.
Fighting erupted on Saturday in the Ifwotu payam area, Southwest of Torit town, between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and a combined force of the rebel National Salvation Front (NAS) and the SPLA-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO).
The sound of heavy gunfire caused panic among local residents, leading many to flee their homes. A number of families have sought refuge at the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Torit.
The situation prompted the governor to reassure the public and encourage civilians to remain in their homes, while also cautioning them against to far into the bushes due to ongoing security.
According to the office of the Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Governor Louis Lobong Lojore met with displaced people at Igele Farm after government forces claimed the recapture of Ifwotu Payam from the SPLM-IO and NAS coalition, urging their return home despite ongoing security volatility in Torit County.