Expressing deep concern over the increasing military clashes in South Sudan, African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has called on the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition and other armed movements in the country to immediately desist from fighting.
“The renewed fighting in South Sudan is a clear indication that the warring parties continue to believe in a military solution, fully disregarding the plight of innocent civilians which they claim to represent and defend,” Mr. Mahamat said in a statement released on Sunday by the AU Commission in Addis Ababa.
He warned that the fighting “continues to negatively impact on the security, safety and life of civilians in the country.”
The Chairperson recalled that during his visit to South Sudan in March 2017, the leadership of South Sudan committed to announce a unilateral ceasefire and issuance of amnesty to protagonists who were willing to return to Juba for political engagement.
“The immediate consequences of the military clashes on the civilian population are shattering and therefore it should be understood that those engaging in this callous behaviour should be held accountable.”
Photo credit: African Union
