First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar (middle), UNISFA Commander Benajmin Olufemi (military outfits) and meet in Juba. (Office of the FVP).

The United Nation Interim Security Force Commander in Abyei and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar met in Juba this week and discussed ways to restore stability in the border region.

Major General Benjamin Olufemi visited Juba following a series of attacks in Abyei Administrative Area that left nearly 100 people dead and dozens more injured in the last two months.

General Olufemi said he and Dr. Machar discussed ending the recurrent bloodshed in Abyei through implementation of the recent Presidential Order.

He said he called on the South Sudan government to rein on communal armed groups and provide a conducive environment for the return of internally displaced persons in the Abyei box.

Speaking to the media, General Olufemi said the first vice president assured the UNISFA of the government’s efforts to end the conflict and resettle the displaced.

“Regarding the unfortunate incidents that we witness in Abyei, which has led to the death of several persons and displacement of people, it’s important that we engage with the government of South Sudan to ensure that normalcy returns to the Abyei box,” he told the media.

“The first vice president is very helpful, and he has showed that the government of South Sudan is concerned about what is happening. He has been able to give us assurances which regards to security of the Abyei box.”

From 27^th to 28^th January 2024, armed men suspected to be from neighboring Warrap State launched multiple attacks in Abyei – killing about 53 people including two UNISFA peacekeepers, according to local authorities.

A second attack a week later claimed the lives of 15 people and left four other missing.