South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Denis Ejulu
The government on Tuesday called on the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) to investigate the killings of South Sudanese nationals by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and its allied forces in Sudan.
Apuk Ayuel Mayen, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, told journalists that the probe into the killings which occurred on January 11, following the recapture of Wad Medani, Al Jazirah State from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), will ensure transparency and quick outcomes for the benefit of the two countries and people.
“At this juncture, we reiterate our call for the UNSC and the AU to join our call for a credible investigation,” Mayen added.
“We urge the government of Sudan to refrain from issuing unfounded allegations that could jeopardize our bilateral relations and regional stability. We remain committed to advancing our existing bilateral relations with Sudan, across various cooperation fields and reiterate our assurance to address any misunderstandings or concerns promptly and appropriately,” Mayen noted.
The alleged killing of South Sudanese citizens by the SAF sparked violent riots on January 16 in some parts of the country, during which rioters predominantly targeted Sudanese nationals and their businesses.
According to the police, 16 Sudanese nationals were killed, and several businesses were looted and vandalized.
Sudan has seen a conflict between the SAF and the RSF since mid-April 2023. The conflict has claimed about 27,000 lives and displaced nearly 15 million people, both within Sudan and across its borders, according to the latest estimates from international organizations.