South Sudan Rejects UN Human Rights Commission Allegations, Reaffirms Election Commitment
Credit: Eye Radio
The South Sudanese government has rejected allegations by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, calling them unfounded, while reaffirming its commitment to the peace process and holding elections as part of the country’s democratic transition.
In a statement issued Sept. 11, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the government welcomed the commission’s 14th visit to South Sudan, held from Sept. 7-10, and appreciated its engagement with government officials and other stakeholders.
The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on the peace process, human rights and the country’s political transition, the ministry said.
“The Government, however, strongly rejects the unfounded allegations contained in the press statement issued by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights at the conclusion of its visit,” the statement said.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the Revitalized Peace Agreement as the framework for advancing peace and stability in South Sudan. It also reiterated its commitment to holding elections as part of the country’s democratic transition.
The ministry said South Sudan’s future should be shaped through nationally owned political processes, pointing to the recently announced inter-party dialogue as an opportunity for political stakeholders to discuss national issues and contribute to the transition.
The government also welcomed continued engagement with the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, the African Union, the United Nations and other partners in support of peace, stability and the democratic transition.The statement did not provide detailed responses to the specific allegations raised by the commission.
