AU urges restraint in South Sudan crisis

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in South Sudan, particularly the escalating violence in Jonglei State, which has displaced large numbers of civilians. In a statement, Youssouf warned that inflammatory rhetoric and actions risk inciting further violence and endangering civilian populations, including […]

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in South Sudan, particularly the escalating violence in Jonglei State, which has displaced large numbers of civilians.

In a statement, Youssouf warned that inflammatory rhetoric and actions risk inciting further violence and endangering civilian populations, including women and children.

He stressed that such developments undermine the spirit of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

The AU Chairperson condemned any acts of violence against civilians, insisting that their protection remains the responsibility of all parties to the conflict.

He noted that despite public commitments by South Sudanese leaders to the peace process, violations of the Permanent Ceasefire continue to worsen the humanitarian situation.

Youssouf called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and adhere strictly to the ceasefire and power-sharing arrangements under the R-ARCSS.

He urged stakeholders to resolve outstanding differences through dialogue and consensus-based decision-making, placing the interests of the people above political considerations.

Reaffirming the AU’s commitment to lasting peace and stability in South Sudan, Youssouf said the continental body will continue to work closely with IGAD, the United Nations, and other international partners to support national reconciliation and the successful completion of the Transitional Period.