ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The African Union has raised alarm over rising insecurity in parts of South Sudan, warning that escalating violence threatens the country’s fragile peace process and civilian safety.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed deep concern over worsening security conditions, particularly in Jonglei State, where renewed tensions and violence have displaced large numbers of civilians.
Youssouf said the reported escalation, coupled with inflammatory rhetoric by political actors, risks inciting further violence and exposing vulnerable populations — including women and children — to grave danger.
“These developments run counter to the letter and spirit of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS),” the AU Commission Chairperson said.
He strongly condemned any calls for, or acts of, violence against civilians, stressing that the protection of civilians remains a core obligation of all parties to the conflict.
While acknowledging public commitments by South Sudanese leaders to the peace process, Youssouf said the African Union remains deeply concerned by continued violations of the Permanent Ceasefire, noting their severe humanitarian consequences.
“The Chairperson is gravely alarmed by reports of ongoing ceasefire violations and their adverse impact on civilians,” the statement read.
Youssouf urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately de-escalate tensions, and comply fully with obligations under the R-ARCSS. He emphasized the need for strict adherence to ceasefire arrangements, respect for agreed power-sharing mechanisms, and a return to inclusive, consensus-based decision-making.
The AU Commission Chairperson also called on South Sudan’s political leaders to prioritise the interests of the people over political rivalries and resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means to safeguard the Transitional Period.
“The successful completion of the transitional process depends on collective responsibility, dialogue, and adherence to the peace agreement,” he said.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan’s peace and stability efforts, pledging continued collaboration with IGAD, the United Nations, and international partners to prevent further deterioration of the security situation.
South Sudan has struggled with intermittent violence and political tensions despite the 2018 peace deal, raising fears that renewed instability could derail preparations for long-delayed elections.
