Counties of Unity State

A civil society group in Unity State has condemned the violent clashes that erupted in parts of Rubkona and Guit counties, as well as several internally displaced persons camps in Bentiu, between January 3 and 4 this year.

In a statement issued over the weekend, the group expressed deep concern over the renewed violence, describing it as a serious threat to civilian safety and social stability in the affected areas.

The group said the clashes caused fear and disruption among residents and displaced families, many of whom were already living in vulnerable conditions.

It called on all parties involved in the fighting to exercise maximum restraint and immediately cease hostilities.

The civil society group also urged state authorities and security agencies to take swift action to restore calm, protect civilians, and prevent further escalation of violence.

In addition, the group appealed to the international community and regional bodies to closely monitor the situation and engage the warring parties to support peace efforts, saying the country cannot afford continued cycles of violence.

The group further called on the United Nations Mission in South Sudan to resume its mandate of protecting civilians and their property.

Unity State has experienced repeated insecurity in recent years, with civil society organisations consistently calling for stronger protection of civilians, especially in conflict-prone areas and IDP settlements.