South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Awan Achiek
A prominent South Sudanese human rights defender has called on the government to impose sanctions on individuals who threaten peace, security, and stability in the country.
Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organisation (CEPO), warned that these “spoilers” are pushing South Sudan back towards full-scale civil war.
“The government should renew its political commitment to transitioning the country from violence to peace; the spoilers are driving us back into a full-scale civil war,” Yakani stated during a media briefing on Sunday.
He emphasised the necessity for the government to take decisive action against peace spoilers to avert a return to widespread violence.
“The leadership of the country needs to sanction those undermining peace and provide opportunities for those striving for stability,” he said.
“We want to collaborate as South Sudanese to stabilise the nation for which we have fought since 1983, resulting in the loss of millions of lives,” he added.
“We do not want our population to be displaced, seek refuge, or face grave human rights violations again.”
The outspoken activist urged those with grievances to engage in dialogue to resolve their issues.
“Take responsibility for resolving your political differences through dialogue, not military confrontation.”
He specifically cautioned prophet and spiritual leader Makuach Tut Khor against addressing political differences through violence.
“Our message to all warring parties in Upper Nile State is that we are watching. We are documenting the actions of everyone promoting violence in that region.”
Yakani called for dialogue in Upper Nile to find lasting solutions to the ongoing problems.
“One day, the books of justice and accountability will reveal your names and require you to answer questions in a competent court of law.”
Reports indicate that the White Army and forces from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO), loyal to detained First Vice President Riek Machar and commanded by Makuach Tut Khor, were advancing from Jonglei State to launch an attack on Malakal.
They are currently positioned in Mogog village in Ayod County and parts of Pigi County.
