Flags of the Troika Countries | File photo.

The Troika countries have expressed concerns of reports of preparations for renewed fighting in Upper Nile State.

In  a statement on Tuesday, the embassies of Norway, the United States, and the United Kingdom in South Sudan appealed to the country’s leaders to act immediately to avert the brewing inter-communal tension.

“We note with grave concern indications of preparation for renewed fighting in Upper Nile State. South Sudanese transitional leaders and political actors in Juba have a responsibility to act to prevent this and to find peaceful and sustainable solutions,” reads the statement.

The Western countries said the political and traditional leaders “bear responsibility for ensuring the continued safe access and delivery of humanitarian assistance.”

They further call on the government to hold accountable those responsible for previous sub-national violence, including the most recent clashes in Upper Nile, Jonglei, and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.

“This includes those who have engaged in human rights violations, abductions, and human trafficking.”