PRESS RELEASE
SPLM-IO Europe

Immediate Reversal Needed of Order Expelling UNMISS from Akobo

SPLM-IO Europe expresses its full support for the United Nations and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in their continued efforts to protect civilians and uphold international peacekeeping obligations in South Sudan. We also thank the Troika countries - the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway - for publicly addressing the urgent and deeply concerning attempt by the regime of President Salva Kiir to force UNMISS to vacate the Akobo area in Jonglei State.

The presence of UNMISS in Akobo has been essential in maintaining a minimum level of security for the civilian population. The removal of UNMISS peacekeepers from this region would expose the local population to grave risks. Akobo and the surrounding areas are home to communities living on their ancestral lands as well as thousands of displaced civilians who have sought refuge there after attacks in other parts of Jonglei. Many of these attacks have been carried out by forces aligned with the Kiir regime, reportedly supported by Ugandan troops and mercenary elements. Under such circumstances, the withdrawal of UNMISS would effectively leave civilians without any form of international protection.

SPLM-IO Europe therefore calls for the immediate and official reversal of the directive issued by the Kiir regime requesting UNMISS to vacate the Akobo area. The international community must remain vigilant to ensure that peacekeeping mandates are respected and that civilian populations are not abandoned to violence. The people of Akobo have the fundamental right to live safely on their ancestral lands, free from intimidation, displacement, or the threat of attack.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the men and women serving with UNMISS for their professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to protecting civilians under extremely difficult circumstances. Their presence continues to save lives and provides a vital stabilizing role in areas where state institutions have failed to guarantee the safety of the population.

SPLM-IO Europe urges the United Nations Security Council, the African Union, IGAD, and the wider international community to ensure that UNMISS retains full operational access to Akobo and all areas where civilians are at risk.

Victoria Thomas-Thot
Civil Society Liaison, South Sudanese Diaspora Europe and United Kingdom

Protocol Note

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