MPs representing the Chollo in the National Legislative Assembly say UNMISS failed to protect civilians during the violence at the UN camp.

The violence which broke out on Wednesday evening has left at least 18 people dead, according to the medical charity, MSF.

“We hold UNMISS responsible for failing to carry out its mandate for protection of civilians,” Hon Onyoti Adigo, representative of Fashoda constituency, told the media this morning.

Hon Adigo, who was speaking on behalf of the 6 MPs, urged the government and the UN mission to investigate the killings.

“We also urgently appeal to the international community and NGOs to provide humanitarian assistance such as food, shelter, medicine, and all necessary needs of the two communities,” he added.

Efforts by Eye Radio to contact UNMISS for comments have not been successful.

But in a previous press statement after the violence broke out, the mission said its police in charge of maintaining order at the camp immediately intervened with tear gas to disperse the crowd.

It said troops increased their patrols while physically securing areas near the camp.

According to UN figures, some 47,000 people live inside the camp in Malakal.