Ceasefire monitors express deep concern over reports of violence in Upper Nile
The Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) have expressed deep concern over emerging reports of violence in Fashoda County of Upper Nile State.
The violence is reportedly ongoing between Agwelek forces of renegade Johnson Olony and the white army allied with Simon Gatwich Dual of the Kitgwang faction which split from the SPLM-IO.
Lt Gen Asrat Denero Amad, the Chairperson of CTSAMVM said the tensions and sporadic violence between the groups which started in August led to displacement of thousands of people.
“We expressed concern over the ongoing conflict in Upper Nile since August 2021 which if not contained, has the potential to re-ignite a wider national conflict and in this regard,” Gen. Denero said during a CTSAMVM meeting held in Juba yesterday.
General Denero urged the government to intervene urgently to de-escalate the violence.
“We urged the R-TGoNU to redouble efforts to resolve the conflict through dialogue and implementation of relevant provisions of the Transitional Security Arrangements,” said Denero.
He said logistical challenges are hindering the work of ceasefire monitors.
“The logistical challenges affecting CTSAMVM was a big concern, and in that regard, the Council directed the IGAD Chiefs of Defense Forces to meet as soon as possible to come up with options of supporting CTSAMVM so that the Mechanism becomes fully operational,” he said.
On 4th December, the Relief and Rehabilitation Coordinator in Fashoda County of Upper Nile State estimate that more than 3,000 civilians were killed in the recent armed violence in the state.
The initial conflict began in Panyikang and Fangak Counties in July between factions of the SPLM-IO Kitgwang, commanded by General Simon Gatwech and General Johnson Olony – before escalating into heavy conflict by mid-August.
Last month, the attack by the white army from Lou Nuer reached Fashoda County – where the palace of the King of Chollo is based.
As result, the Chollo King was airlifted to Juba on Thursday.
Civilians have been reportedly attacked in the violence.
