UN to deploy troops to Jonglei to contain ethnic violence – Shearer

JUBA – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is deploying peacekeepers to several areas in the country’s restive Jonglei State to support government efforts in containing insecurity caused by escalating ethnic violence there.

David Shearer, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of UNMISS said during a press conference in Juba on Tuesday that the Mission will set up temporary bases in a number of areas of Jonglei State in coming weeks.

“Over the coming weeks, in cooperation with security services, we will begin deploying peacekeepers to places like Manyabol, Likongule, Duk Padiat, and Waat to set up temporary bases or conduct extended long-distance patrols,” Shearer told reporters.

The UN diplomat explained that the UNMISS intends to raise its operations to deter conflict especially during the dry season where most cattle raiding operations occur.

“We have a responsibility to protect those who need protection most. That means, we need to locate our troops and staff who facilitate   reconciliation and peacebuilding in areas of tension before conflict erupts,” he said.

Shearer further revealed that the mission has re-designated the protection of civilians’ sites across the country into IDP camps.

“Today, I am happy to inform you that the Juba POCS have now also been re-designated as IDP camps. It has followed a long and careful process, planning alongside humanitarian and consultation with national and local government, the security services, and the displaced community,” he said.