By Lodu William Odiya
The One Citizen Network for democracy (OCND) have strongly condemned the recent clashes between the South Sudan Peoples defense Forces and the Sudan people’s Liberation Movement-in Opposition (SPLM-IO) army across the country.
In statement released yesterday, OCND stated it was deeply concerned by reports of clashes between the two armies across the nation.
“One Citizen Network for democracy (OCND) is deeply concerned by reports of clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in Opposition across the Country, there is ongoing clashes in Morobo, Nasir, Malakal Town, Ulang, Uror and Tambura County” the statement partly read.
The statement underscored Aya called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and restoration of calm, given already fragile political and security conditions in the country.
According to the statement, OCND appealed to all military actors to refrain from conflict, prioritize the protection of civilians, resolve differences through dialogue, and ensure unimpeded access for Sustainable peace.
The statement also stated that these attacks constituted a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian law.
It also highlighted that vitally, the two armies contravened the Revitalized Peace Agreement and severely undermined the ongoing efforts to establish durable peace in the country.
“We call on involved parties to prioritize civilian protection by recommitting to the Peace Agreement and the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and actioning an immediate ceasefire” statement read.
Additionally, the statement highlighted a call to investigate the incidents and hold those responsible to account.
South Sudan is experiencing escalating violence and political tensions, with recent clashes primarily involving different arms group and government forces, raising fears of a return to civil war.