Tombura conflict could derail South Sudan peace process, UN warns

JUBA – Escalating communal violence in Tombura County in Western Equatoria State of South Sudan will endanger vulnerable populations, exacerbate the dire humanitarian situation, and threaten successful implementation of the 2018 peace deal, the United Nations has warned.

More than 200 people have been killed and over 80,000 civilians displaced, destruction of private and public property, and the suspension of humanitarian operations.

“Unless urgent action is taken by unity government to end the fighting, there is an imminent risk that further escalation will endanger vulnerable populations, exacerbate the dire humanitarian situation, and threaten successful implementation of the 2018 Revitalized,” said a Joint statement by IGAD, R-JMEC, Representatives of the African Diplomatic Community, Norway and the UNMISS.

The group said that the root causes of the conflict in Tombura can only be addressed through full implementation of the Agreement and, most urgently, the unification of forces and their deployment.

“The delegation calls on the national and state governments to take immediate steps towards the separation of forces and undertake dialogue and reconciliation initiatives between communities to de-escalate tensions,” a statement issued on Sunday said.

They called for immediate cessation of hostilities as they welcomed the Presidency’s decision to investigate recent events through a Joint Defense Board team, led by Lt. Gen. Wesley Welebe.

“It also looks forward to the Government’s implementation of its recommendations, especially the removal of fighting forces from the area and the recall to Juba of leaders of the various factions,” it said.

The group appealed for local authorities and community leaders to ensure the safety and security of humanitarian workers so that life-saving assistance can resume in earnest.

“The protection of civilians and support to internally displaced people is first and foremost the responsibility of the Government. However, the delegation will continue to support the Government and people of South Sudan, including through capacity-building of rule of law institutions,” it said.

The mission was carried out as part of ongoing efforts by UNMISS to strengthen cooperation and coordination with international partners to promote sustainable peace, security, and development in South Sudan.