South Sudan envoy urges UN to use precise language when reporting on armed groups

South Sudan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Sabino Nyawella Amaikwey has urged the United Nations to use precise terminology when reporting on organized armed groups, arguing that describing them as “armed youths” does not accurately reflect the country’s security situation.

Speaking during a UN Security Council briefing, Ambassador Amaikwey criticized the wording used in a recent UN report, saying organized armed groups should be identified as such whenever credible evidence is available.

Ambassador Amaikwey said accurate terminology is crucial for accountability and informed decision-making, particularly when reporting on violence and insecurity across the country.

“UN reporting should remain consistent and accurately identify organized armed groups whenever credible evidence permits,” Nyawella said. “Precision in language promotes accountability and informed decision-making.”

The diplomat also rejected assertions that recent adjustments to the Revitalized Peace Agreement were undertaken unilaterally by the government, maintaining that the measures were taken within the agreement’s framework to advance implementation after prolonged delays.

“The report seems to insinuate or characterize recent adjustments relating to the Revitalized Peace Agreement as unilateral,” he said.

“South Sudan respectfully disagrees with such assertions. These measures were undertaken within the framework of the agreement to advance implementation after prolonged delays.”

“The temporary absence of certain leaders, whether by choice or because they are subject to legal processes, cannot indefinitely suspend implementation of an agreement intended to benefit the entire nation.”

Addressing security concerns, Amaikwey added that violence occurring in areas outside government control should not automatically be blamed on the national government.

“As for incidents happening outside the areas under the control of the government, or under the control of opposition entities, those cannot be bluntly reported against the government of South Sudan,” Amaikwey stated.