South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Benjamin Takpiny
The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) has condemned the fighting between armed groups in Leer County of Unity State.
CPA in a statement issued in Juba on Wednesday, called on Sudan People’s Liberation Army –in opposition (SPLA-IO) and South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) soldiers to respect international human rights law when it comes to the rule of engagement.
“As South Sudan anticipates holding general elections in December 2024, its government must hold accountable those individuals creating conflict and yet we are seeking for transformation of South Sudan from war to a peaceful democratic state,” it said.
It noted that article 2.1.10.4 of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement bars offensive, provocative or retaliatory actions such as dissemination of hostile propaganda, recruitment, mobilization, redeployment and movement of forces, except for administrative and logistical movements.
CPA noted that the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed on 21st December, 2017 entails the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to notify prior to movement f troops and any other activities that may jeopardize the 2018 peace agreement.
It said that the latest clashes demonstrates lack of commitment by forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and his First Vice President Riek Machar’s to the 2017 cessation of hostilities agreement.
“In order for the country to be peaceful, it requires tolerance and honest governance for citizens to enjoy peace. Kiir and Machar have failed to control their forces, they need responsible Generals who understand the suffering of the civilians across the country,” CPA said.
CPA called on Reconstituted Joint Monitoring Evaluation Mechanism (RJMEC), CTSAMVM and IGAD to investigate the clashes in Leer County.
