UN warns of threats to civilians and transition in South Sudan
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan said that renewed violence, rising political tensions, shrinking civic space, corruption and impunity pose serious risks to civilians and the country’s fragile political transition. This was reported in Juba by Anadolu Agency after the commission’s 14th visit to South Sudan.
Testimony on violence and displacement
Commission Chair Yasmin Sooka said that during every visit, its members hear testimonies about forced displacement, danger, human rights violations, and the failure of political bodies and security forces to prevent harm to civilians and respond to violations.
According to her, families are leaving their homes, communities are living in fear, and women and girls are suffering serious violations. The country’s residents also face difficulties accessing even basic services. Sooka noted that the nature of these problems has changed little, while human losses continue to rise.
She stressed that South Sudan can still prevent a further deterioration of the situation through genuine political dialogue, protection of civilians, and guarantees of a peaceful and credible political transition.
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Impunity and conditions for elections
Commission member Carlos Castresana Fernández said that the UN has documented serious violations for years, while impunity remains one of the main problems. According to him, those responsible for grave violations are often not held accountable, and justice institutions are weak and insufficiently resourced.
Fernández added that one year after the commission’s report on corruption, its recommendations had been implemented only to a limited extent, while in some areas the situation had deteriorated further. He said that impunity for violations and the diversion of state resources without consequences entrench impunity and contribute to violence.
Another commission member, Barney Afako, said that implementation of the Revitalized Agreement has stalled. Ahead of the elections, political and civic space has shrunk, and many safeguards and conditions for peaceful and credible voting are still absent, he said. Afako stressed the need to ensure voters’ free participation, fair competition, and the reliable resolution of electoral disputes.
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