The ceasefire monitoring body – CTSAM-VM says insecurity has reduced between parties in Unity and Upper Nile, but expressed concern over related clashes among armed youths in the region.
Lt. Gen Asrat Denero, the Chairperson for Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring & Verification Mechanism said on Monday, the violence in Upper Nile region has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation.
Speaking during the 35th CTSAM-VM Technical Committee Meeting in Juba, Denero pointed out that the factional fighting has caused deaths and mass displacement.
He however said security has improved despite reports of lingering tension in Upper Nile State.
“The tension between the Parties in Unity and Upper Nile States have reduced to some extent,” said General Denero.
“However, CTSAMVM remains concerned about the recent reports of tensions in Upper Nile State and northern parts of Jonglei States following repeated clashes reported between SPLM/A-IO, Agwelek forces, and the armed youth which has caused deaths and large-scale displacement of civilians.”
According to the United Nations, at least 27,000 people have been forced out of their homes as fierce fighting erupted between armed factions in Tunga and neighboring Panyikang County in Upper Nile State.
The clashes involving armed youth as well as military factions have displaced tens of thousands of people across the state and the neighboring Jonglei State.
Most of the victims have sought refuge at the Protection of Civilians Site in Upper Nile State capital, Malakal.