The ongoing conflict in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, poses a significant threat to the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), according to the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA).
Renewed fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army erupted yesterday at around 4 PM when a member of the White Army was shot and killed by SSPDF elements in Nasir town. Earlier that morning, intense clashes resumed at approximately 4 AM between the two groups in Nasir County.
CPA Director Ter Manyang emphasized that both the SSPDF and the White Army must adhere to the 2017 ceasefire agreement. “This is a serious concern not only for the people of South Sudan but also for the international community and diplomats based in Juba,” he said.
Manyang warned that if the crisis is mismanaged, political leaders could bear primary responsibility for a return to full-scale conflict. “It is crucial to engage in dialogue and adopt a cooperative approach among political elites,” he added.
The CPA called on the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) to maintain professionalism as the national army, urging them to protect civilians rather than resorting to violence. The organization stressed the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law and human rights principles to avoid further escalation.
The Government of South Sudan, the CPA stated, has a critical responsibility to protect its citizens and ensure that the actions of its armed forces comply with international law.
, according to the Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA).){kind=link}