Previous necessary Unified Forces. (Photo: File).

A political analyst has described the renewal of United Nations sanctions on South Sudan as part of broader international efforts aimed at pressuring South Sudan leaders to implement security sector reforms and promote long-term stability in the country.

On Sunday, the United Nations Security Council renewed sanctions on South Sudan, extending the mandate of the Panel of Experts, as well as the arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze measures, for another 12 months.

Reacting to the decision, Dr. Musa Manas Jambo, Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Juba, said the measures are intended to address ongoing security challenges and encourage coordination within the security sector.

“Continue projection and lack of cohesion among security forces have resulted in a precarious security environment and affected vulnerabilities and impeding the overall progress of the country,” Dr. Jambo said.

He added that international support through diplomatic and collaborative frameworks is aimed at strengthening national institutions and improving stability.

“To make it very clear, by reinforcing these diplomatic efforts and support for collaborative frameworks, the international community actually aims not only to address the needed challenges, but also to facilitate a more comprehensive approach toward the unification and the professionalization of the security forces,” he said.

Dr. Jambo said such reforms are expected to contribute to long-term stability and development in South Sudan.

“This in turn is expected to contribute to a more stable and secure future, make a groundwork for sustainable development and the protections of human rights of course for all South Sudanese,” he added.

Meanwhile, the United States has called on the South Sudanese government to renounce the use of violence for political purposes and ensure that public revenues are directed toward improving citizens’ welfare.

The sanctions renewal comes as South Sudan continues to implement provisions of the revitalized peace agreement, including security arrangements and preparations for upcoming elections.