Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-03-07 07:07:18
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) strongly condemned the killing of one of its staff members in Ruweng, an administrative area near the border with Warrap state and Abyei on March 6, 2024. The victim, Charles Kiir Gone, was a heavy vehicle operator serving with the peacekeeping mission in Wau. He was visiting his family in Abiemnhom when armed men attacked the house he was staying in, stealing cows and other valuables. Witnesses and local authorities reported that the attackers drove the stolen cows towards Mayom county in Unity State, but the identity of the armed group remains unknown.
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Nicholas Haysom, expressed shock and sadness over the killing of Charles Kiir Gone, offering sincere sympathy to his loved ones for their tragic loss. Haysom highlighted the ongoing threat to the lives of UN peacekeepers and the communities they serve, emphasizing the need for immediate investigation by local and state authorities.
The area where the incident took place has been plagued by recurring clashes over territorial disputes, cattle theft, and revenge killings stemming from communal disputes. Abiemnhom, previously part of Unity state before the creation of the Ruweng Administrative Area, is located near Mayom County in Unity State where such conflicts have been a challenge.
UNMISS extended its deepest condolences to Charles Kiir Gone’s family, friends, and colleagues, urging authorities to investigate the incident promptly. The mission emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of peacekeepers and community members in South Sudan as they strive towards lasting peace.
The killing of a UN staff member highlights the dangerous environment in which peacekeepers operate in South Sudan, where conflicts fueled by territorial claims and communal disputes continue to pose a threat to stability. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those working to support the country in its journey towards peace and prosperity.
UNMISS remains committed to supporting South Sudan and its people in overcoming challenges and building a sustainable future. The loss of Charles Kiir Gone is a tragic reminder of the sacrifices made by those dedicated to promoting peace and security in the region. The mission will continue to work with local and state authorities to ensure accountability for such acts of violence and to prevent further tragedies in the future.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
