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Report by Al-Naeim Mubarak Kol
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has expressed concerns over the difficulties and challenges it faces in reaching stranded civilians affected by the conflict in Wundurba, in Central Equatoria State.
General Mohan Subramanian, Commander of the UN Forces, stated:
“We try our best at checkpoints to avoid escalating the situation and prevent conflict. However, our ability to reach locations where we can save lives is severely impacted. Denying us access prevents us from rescuing these lives.”
Wundurba is 122 kilometers from Juba, typically a two-hour drive. However, due to rough terrain, bad roads, and rainwater, the journey now takes over five hours. According to the UN Mission, soldiers have set up tents by the roadside and are negotiating entry at a checkpoint. It was reported that security forces are forcing UN troops to return to Juba.
A delegation from South Sudan is investigating the violence in Wundurba. However, since April 2024, government authorities and security forces have barred the UN Mission and other organizations tasked with monitoring and preventing conflict from accessing the area. This raises concerns about the inability of UN peacekeepers to reach hotspots and protect the population.
The UN Mission conducts over 700 patrols monthly in Juba without major obstacles, but there are occasional refusals. General Subramanian said:
“Although the number may seem small, these are the areas where clashes are most likely. These are the places where protecting civilians is our highest concern. If we cannot reach these areas and show our presence, we cannot prevent the escalation of conflict.”
“The primary responsibility for protecting civilians lies with the government. If their armed forces can access these areas and prevent conflict, we are very pleased. But if they cannot and conflict remains unresolved, we must step in.” He added
“Even though only 15 patrols out of hundreds are denied access each month, representing just 2-3% of our total, this can paralyze our mandate to protect civilians.” General Subramanian also explained
Maintaining a strong and positive relationship with the host government and security services is critical for the mission. Equally important is earning the trust of the communities it serves, supporting peace efforts, facilitating the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to millions in need, investigating human rights violations, and working to prevent widespread conflict.
“We urge the government to ensure unrestricted access for the UN Mission as one of the best ways to collectively fulfill the mandate of protecting civilians. We have never acted against the peace interests of South Sudan, and there is no reason to feel that our presence anywhere would create difficulties for the government or the peace agreement. Instead, it enhances our efforts in this regard.” He concluded
Meanwhile, Major General Lul Ruai Kaong, spokesperson for the South Sudan Defense Forces, has called for contact with the area for more information to comment on and clarify the incident. Updates on the current situation in Wundurba will follow.
