Ceasefire Monitors Demand Accountability for Violations Amid Renewed Clashes

By Awan Achiek

The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) has urged signatories to South Sudan’s 2018 peace agreement to take concrete action against verified ceasefire violations and hold those responsible accountable.

This call comes amid reports of renewed armed clashes, road ambushes, and intercommunal violence across parts of the country.

Speaking at the CTSAMVM Technical Committee Meeting in Juba on Thursday, the mechanism’s chairperson, Maj. Gen. Dr. Hailu Endashaw Atomsa, called for a renewed commitment to the Permanent Ceasefire. He warned that ongoing security incidents threaten efforts to implement the peace agreement.

Gen. Atomsa highlighted several recent incidents, including clashes between SPLM/A-IO and South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in Mugwo Payam, Central Equatoria State, which displaced civilians.

 He noted that the continued fighting in Panyume, Morobo County, has restricted civilian movement and humanitarian access, contributing to severe food shortages.

He also reported SPLM/A-IO ambushes on civilians and commercial vehicles along the Mundri–Juba Highway in Western Equatoria State, which have heightened insecurity and restricted movement.

Furthermore, Atomsa alleged that an attack by SPLM/A-IO forces and White Army fighters on an SSPDF barracks in Wunkur, Ruweng Administrative Area, resulted in fatalities and injuries.

“The security situation across the country has remained mixed, with some areas experiencing relative calm, while others have witnessed localized armed clashes, road ambushes and intercommunal violence,” Gen. Atomsa said.

“The incidents covered in these reports underscore the need for renewed commitment by all Signatory Parties to uphold the Permanent Ceasefire, protect civilians and prevent further escalation.”

Gen. Atomsa raised concerns about compliance with the Permanent Ceasefire, emphasizing that these incidents further restrict movement along major roads.

He called on the government to reaffirm its commitment to the Permanent Ceasefire and ensure full compliance with Chapter II of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

He stressed the need for strict adherence to the Transitional Security Arrangements and urged all parties to refrain from offensive, provocative, or retaliatory actions.

“Protect civilians from attacks and ensure safe movement along key roads and within communities. Facilitate Humanitarian aid access with relevant authorities to enable the safe delivery of assistance to support affected families,” he stated.

Finally, Gen.Atomsa underscored the necessity for the parties to ensure appropriate accountability, in accordance with applicable law and the R-ARCSS, for individuals responsible for verified violations.