Government demands respect for Abyei agreements, protection of civilians

By Staff Writer

The Government of South Sudan has renewed its call for respect for existing agreements, the protection of civilians and the peaceful resolution of outstanding issues with Sudan, as diplomatic attention intensifies over the security and political situation in the disputed Abyei region.

The position comes amid mounting humanitarian pressures, renewed security concerns following the October 19 attacks on Amiet Market and disagreements over Abyei’s participation in South Sudan’s forthcoming elections.

Speaking during the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s weekly media briefing on Friday, Ministry spokesperson Apuk Mayen said South Sudan remained committed to resolving outstanding issues through established bilateral and international mechanisms. She cautioned against unilateral actions that could heighten tensions.

“South Sudan believes that outstanding issues between the two countries must be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect and the established mechanisms. Both governments have commitments to honour, and it is important that neither side takes unilateral actions that could undermine peace and stability,” Mayen said.

Abyei featured prominently during a November 5 briefing by the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Guang Cong, to the United Nations Security Council.

The briefing addressed the unresolved status of Abyei, its participation in South Sudan’s forthcoming elections, security challenges and the humanitarian situation in the area.

Sudan objected to Abyei’s inclusion in South Sudan’s electoral constituencies, while South Sudan maintained that the rights and interests of the nine Ngok Dinka chiefdoms must be respected pending a final settlement of the territory’s status.

Mayen said the Government remained firm that the rights and interests of the affected communities must be safeguarded as diplomatic efforts towards a lasting settlement continue.

“The question of Abyei remains an important outstanding issue between South Sudan and Sudan. Our position is that the rights and interests of the nine Ngok Dinka chiefdoms must be respected pending a final resolution of the status of the area,” she said.

Security concerns have also intensified following the October 19 attacks on Amiet Market, which were raised during the UN briefing.

The Special Envoy called for an independent investigation into the attacks, respect for Abyei’s demilitarised status and measures to protect civilians.

The humanitarian situation remains equally pressing. According to the Special Envoy, more than 50,000 returnees, refugees and asylum seekers had crossed into South Sudan through Abyei, placing additional pressure on humanitarian response systems.

Mayen stressed that civilian protection must remain central to all diplomatic and security efforts concerning the territory.

“Beyond the political disagreements, the protection of human life must remain our priority. Civilians should not bear the consequences of unresolved political disputes. We support efforts to ensure accountability, maintain security and protect vulnerable communities,” she said.

Diplomatic efforts are expected to gain further momentum as the Joint Political and Security Mechanism is scheduled to convene from November 8 to 10. The United Nations Security Council is also expected to consider the mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), which expires on November 15.

Beyond the Abyei question, Juba continues to engage the United Nations on South Sudan’s political transition, humanitarian needs and preparations for forthcoming elections.

On November 4, Caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Cecilia Adut Manyok Adeng, met with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for South Sudan and Head of UNMISS, Anita Kiki Gbeho.

Their discussions focused on the political and security situation, election preparedness and the role of UNMISS in supporting the political process.

A day earlier, Caretaker Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Philip Jada Natana, held discussions with the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident Coordinator and ad interim Humanitarian Coordinator. Their discussions covered humanitarian assistance, Ebola preparedness and cooperation with the United Nations.

Mayen said the engagements reflected the Government’s commitment to working with international partners on issues affecting national stability and development.

“Our engagement with the United Nations is important in addressing humanitarian challenges, strengthening preparedness and supporting the political process. South Sudan values constructive international cooperation and remains committed to working with its partners in pursuit of peace and stability,” she said.