The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expresses deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in parts of the Republic of South Sudan, particularly reports of escalating tensions and violence in Jonglei State, which have led to the displacement of large numbers of civilians.

The Chairperson is gravely alarmed by reports of inflammatory rhetoric and actions that risk inciting further violence and placing civilian populations, including women and children, at heightened risk. Such 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).

H.E. Mr. Youssouf strongly condemns any calls for, or acts of, violence against civilians and reiterates that the protection of civilians remains a fundamental responsibility of all parties to the conflict.

While noting the continued public commitments by South Sudanese leaders to the peace process, the Chairperson expresses serious concern over ongoing violations of the Permanent Ceasefire and their adverse humanitarian impact.

The Chairperson calls upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately de-escalate tensions, and fully comply with their obligations under the R-ARCSS. This includes strict adherence to ceasefire arrangements, respect for agreed power-sharing mechanisms, and a return to inclusive, consensus-based decision-making.

The Chairperson further urges South Sudanese stakeholders to place the interests of the people of South Sudan above all other considerations and to resolve outstanding differences through dialogue and peaceful means, with a view to ensuring the successful completion of the Transitional Period.

The African Union reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting the people and Government of South Sudan in their pursuit of lasting peace, stability, and national reconciliation, and will continue to work closely with IGAD, the United Nations and international partners toward this objective.

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Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia