Persistent violence by armed groups is the primary concern for communities and local authorities in Yei and Lainya in the Central Equatoria region, as reported during a peace and security mission by representatives of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Concerns were raised about increasing abductions of ex-combatants and veterans in the area by armed groups looking to bolster their forces, leading to heightened violence in the county, according to Commissioner Aggrey Cyrus Kanyikwa.
Both the Commissioner of Yei and his counterpart from Lainya expressed anxiety over the fragmentation of existing armed groups and the emergence of new forces that threaten stability across the region. They called on UNMISS to support local authorities and security forces in addressing the issue and ensuring civilian protection.
The situation is worsened by a rise in misinformation and disinformation spreading into the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo from South Sudan, fueling fears of cross-border violence and prompting Congolese communities to arm themselves in self-defense. Mr. Kanyikwa urged UNMISS to intervene, stop the misinformation campaign, and prevent further violence.
The growing armed activity and recruitment of troops in the Central Equatorian region are alarming given its history of violence and instability, noted the Head of UNMISS’ Juba Field Office, Njoki Rahab Kinyanjui.
Local authorities stressed the importance of international collaboration to prevent violence and instability, calling on the United Nations and other partners to address security concerns and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Mr. Kanyikwa emphasized the need for peace efforts to continue, with the support of the United Nations and other partners to ensure security and prevent further violence in the region.
“We cannot tolerate more violence and instability in our region. The people have endured more than enough,” he added.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).