South Sudan is on the brink of large-scale conflict, according to a troubling report presented by the country’s Human Rights Commission to the UN General Assembly. This independent body warned about the rising armed violence, political detentions, and systematic human rights violations.
Commissioner Barney Afako expressed serious concern about the state of the political transition, emphasizing that the ceasefire is not being respected, with government forces bombing civilian areas. Since March, more than 370,000 people have been displaced, raising the total number of internally displaced persons in South Sudan to nearly 2.6 million, in addition to around 600,000 refugees in neighboring countries.
Yasmin Sooka, the commission’s chair, denounced the devastating impact of violence on the civilian population. “Once again, the civilian population is being bombed, women are being violated, and children are being displaced. This man-made war is avoidable,” she stated.
The report also highlighted that struggles for political power are closely linked to ethnic tensions and local grievances, increasing distrust among signatories of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement. Corruption emerges as a key factor in this crisis, with billions of dollars in oil revenues being diverted while the population suffers from hunger and lack of basic services.
The Commission urged the international community to take concrete actions to ensure accountability and expedite the establishment of a Hybrid Court for South Sudan. “Peace will not be achieved through words or handshakes; it will be achieved through concrete actions,” Sooka insisted, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms in justice institutions.
Established in 2016, the South Sudan Human Rights Commission reviews human rights violations in the country and operates without financial compensation for its members, reflecting the challenges South Sudan faces in its pursuit of justice and lasting peace.
via: MiMub in Spanish