UN Official Warns of Fragile Situation in South Sudan Ahead of Upcoming Elections

New York, November 10 (KUNA) – A UN official warned on Tuesday of growing fragility in political consensus and worsening security and humanitarian challenges in South Sudan as the country approaches the December elections, amid concerns over its ability to complete the transitional phase and preserve gains made under the peace agreement.

The warning came during a briefing by Anita Keke Gbehio, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for South Sudan and Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), at a meeting of the UN Security Council on the situation in the country.

Gbehio stated that the country stands at a “critical juncture” 42 days before its first elections since independence in 2011, noting that political consensus on the transitional phase has become more fragile despite accelerated electoral preparations.

She explained that concerns remain regarding security and logistical arrangements, as well as the capacity of the National Elections Commission to organize the vote within an extremely tight timeframe, alongside the incomplete implementation of several provisions of the revitalized peace agreement.

Gbehio added that recent political changes have not achieved the 35 percent women’s representation quota stipulated in the agreement, emphasizing that elections should serve as a milestone in the transitional process and cannot replace political dialogue, confidence-building measures, and the implementation of the peace agreement.

On the security front, Gbehio reported that armed clashes between the main signatories to the peace agreement have generally decreased, but local violence, political divisions, and competition over resources have led to a rise in casualties, injuries, and displacement since the beginning of the year.

She highlighted community violence, which accounted for more than 60 percent of civilian victims recorded this year, noting that clashes in areas of Lakes and Warrap states last month reportedly resulted in the deaths of more than 140 people.

On the humanitarian front, the UN official expressed concern over the continued deterioration of conditions, noting that approximately 10 million people require humanitarian assistance, while around 7.5 million face food insecurity.

She mentioned that approximately 1.4 million people have crossed from Sudan into South Sudan since the outbreak of fighting in Sudan, warning of rising numbers of people at risk of famine and worsening conditions due to drought, potential floods, and the spread of the Ebola virus in the region.

Gbehio added that restrictions on humanitarian access increased by 38 percent last year, while the UN mission continues to face mobility constraints that hinder its efforts to protect civilians and deliver aid.

Gbehio called on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, exercise restraint, protect civilians, commit to a ceasefire, and engage in comprehensive political dialogue on the remaining provisions of the peace agreement and the post-election political path.

She stressed that the real challenge is not only holding the elections on time but also ensuring the continuation of peace, strengthening public trust, and fulfilling commitments to the people of South Sudan. (End) A.S.T / M.A.H.A