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Abyei Civil Society Organizations have petitioned the United Nations Security Council, seeking clarification over claims that the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has recognized the Sudanese rebel coalition under TASIS administration in the disputed Abyei region.

In a petition dated July 13, the civil society groups expressed concern that any recognition of what they described as an unauthorized entity claiming to represent the Abyei Special Administrative Area could create confusion, undermine legitimate institutions, and affect ongoing peacebuilding efforts.

Acting Chairperson of the Abyei Civil Society Organizations and Secretary General Assistant, Kuol Arop Mading, said the petition was prompted by a public statement allegedly claiming that UNISFA had recognized the TASIS administration.

“Some individuals who claimed to represent organizations had political motives, despite the organizations’ stated aim of promoting peace in the region. They went further to identify themselves as members of the Dinka Ngok community.”

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), the Abyei Protocol, and the 2009 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, which it said remain the recognized legal framework governing the status of Abyei.

The petition rejects any individual, organization, or self-proclaimed authority claiming to represent the Abyei Special Administrative Area without a lawful mandate, warning that such actions could undermine confidence in legitimate institutions and threaten stability.

The civil society groups are requesting the UN Security Council to seek an official clarification from UNISFA regarding the alleged statement. They further urged the mission, if the claim is inaccurate, to publicly reaffirm its neutrality and commitment to the legal framework governing Abyei.

The petition was also copied to the United Nations Secretary-General, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the African Union Peace and Security Council, IGAD, the Government of South Sudan, diplomatic missions, and international partners.