The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has voiced serious concern over the deteriorating security situation in South Sudan, with violence in Jonglei State forcing thousands of civilians from their homes.
Youssouf warned that inflammatory rhetoric and provocative actions could spark further unrest, putting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, at grave risk. He stressed that such instability threatens the progress of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which was designed to guide the country toward lasting peace.
Condemning attacks on civilians, the AU Chairperson emphasized that all parties bear responsibility for the protection of innocent lives. Despite repeated public assurances by South Sudanese leaders to uphold the peace process, violations of the Permanent Ceasefire have continued, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Calling for calm, Youssouf urged all factions to exercise maximum restraint, reduce tensions, and fully comply with the ceasefire and power-sharing provisions outlined in the R-ARCSS. He also encouraged leaders to resolve disputes through dialogue and consensus, placing the welfare of the South Sudanese people above political ambitions.
Reaffirming the African Union’s dedication to peace and stability in the region, Youssouf highlighted ongoing collaboration with IGAD, the United Nations, and other international partners to support national reconciliation and ensure the smooth completion of the Transitional Period.
