The Chairperson of the African Union Commission has called for immediate de-escalation and full respect for the Revitalized Peace Agreement amid a deteriorating security situation in parts of South Sudan, particularly in Jonglei State, where escalating tensions and violence have resulted in the displacement of large numbers of civilians.

In a statement dated 27 January, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf warned that the continued instability poses a serious threat to civilian safety and undermines efforts toward lasting peace.

The Chairperson is gravely alarmed by reports of inflammatory rhetoric and actions that risk further violence and place civilian populations, especially women and children, at heightened risk.

He emphasized that such developments are inconsistent with the letter and spirit of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

H.E. Mr. Youssouf strongly condemns any incitement to, or acts of, violence against civilians and underscores that the protection of civilians remains a fundamental responsibility of all parties.

While expressing the continued public commitments of South Sudanese leaders to the peace process, the Chairperson expressed serious concern over ongoing violations of the Permanent Ceasefire and their adverse humanitarian impact.

The Chairperson called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately de-escalate tensions, and fully comply with their obligations under the R-ARCSS.

This includes strict adherence to ceasefire arrangements, respect for agreed power-sharing mechanisms, and a return to inclusive, consensus-based decision-making.

He further urged South Sudanese stakeholders to place the interests of the people of South Sudan above all other considerations and to resolve outstanding differences through dialogue and peaceful means, with a view to ensuring the successful completion of the Transitional

Youssouf said the African Union is committed to supporting the people and Government of South Sudan in their pursuit of lasting peace, stability, and national reconciliation, and will continue to work closely with IGAD, the United Nations, and international partners toward this objective. Continue reading “AU chief calls for de-escalation, adherence to 2018 South Sudan peace deal”