South Sudan rejects claims of obstructing UNMISS operations

South Sudan has rejected claims that its government is deliberately obstructing the work of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Sabino Edward Nyawella, says preventing the mission from carrying out its mandate has never been government policy.

Addressing the UN Security Council on Tuesday, Nyawella said the government remains committed to facilitating UNMISS operations in line with the Status of Forces Agreement.

He said any challenges or alleged violations involving the mission should be addressed through established communication channels and formal mechanisms.

Nyawella called for stronger cooperation and coordination between the government and UNMISS, warning against treating individual incidents as deliberate government interference.

He also criticised what he described as generalised human rights reports and allegations published without proper verification or meaningful consultation with the government.

The diplomat urged UNMISS and other reporting bodies to ensure their reports are impartial, evidence-based and within their respective mandates.

He said allegations should be investigated, evidence objectively assessed and those accused given a fair opportunity to respond.

Nyawella said protecting human rights should be a shared responsibility and should not be used as a platform for political disputes.

He also called on the international community to recognise progress made in South Sudan while continuing to work with the government to address remaining challenges.

His remarks come amid continued international scrutiny of the implementation of the peace agreement, the human rights situation and the working environment for UNMISS in South Sudan.