South Sudan: Violence must end – UN Human Rights Chief

Staff Writer

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said today he was appalled by armed elements’ attacks on civilians amid the outbreak of violence in the South Sudanese state of Upper-Nile, and called for Calling authorities and community leaders to take urgent action to end this situation.

At least 166 civilians have been killed and 237 injured in the past four months as clashes intensify between armed elements and between rival community militias in the area.

More than 20,000 people have been displaced by the violence since August.

Reports point to random shooting of civilians.

“These murders, along with reports of gender-based violence, kidnapping, vandalism and looting, constitute serious violations of human rights and must end,” Türk spoke.

“It is vital that the government of South Sudan conducts a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation into the violence and brings all those responsible to justice in accordance with international law,” head on human rights of the United Nations. Civilians have been forcibly displaced under the threat of violence, and increased insecurity has slowed the delivery of emergency and life-saving humanitarian aid.

“I urge those who perpetuate this senseless violence to lay down their arms and engage in dialogue to resolve all grievances peacefully.”

Turkey expresses deep concern that the violence is likely to spread beyond the region and calls on the authorities to act quickly to defuse tensions and ensure the protection of affected communities.