By Matik Kueth
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has tasked the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, Monitoring, and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to investigate the recent clashes in Nasir and the attack on a UN helicopter.
The directive seeks to pave the way for long-term solutions and to hold those responsible for crimes committed during the clashes accountable.
During the CTSAMVM’s technical meeting in Juba on Thursday, Maj. Gen. Yitayal Gelaw, the chairperson of the CTSAMVM, revealed that the regional bloc has entrusted the peace monitor (CTSAMVM) with investigating the Nasir incident.
“Yesterday, I attended the Virtual Held 43rd Extraordinary Summit to the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government about the situation in South Sudan that decided for CTSAMVM to investigate Nasir clashes and the attack on the UN helicopter to ascertain the facts and ensure accountability for any violations,” Maj. Gen. Gelaw said.
He stressed the need for collaboration among party representatives among the CTSAMVM, urging for a concerted effort to address current challenges.
“As we proceed with our discussions today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to peace. Your roles as party representatives and technical committee members are crucial in this process. Let us work together to find sustainable solutions to these challenges,” he urged.
Gelaw added, “The people of South Sudan rely on you to uphold the principles of the ceasefire and move the country towards lasting stability and peace.”
The decision to conduct an investigation comes in the wake of violent clashes between the armed youth known as the White Army and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), which left Maj. Gen. Majur Dak and a UN helicopter team member dead.
The IGAD meeting, held on Wednesday, voiced deep concerns over escalated tensions in Juba following clashes at the Wech-Yar-Adiu military barrack, which resulted in the detention of senior SPLM-IO officials and military personnel by the National Security Service (NSS).
The regional bloc urged all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions, respect the permanent ceasefire, complete the remaining tasks in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and urgently release Machar’s allies detained in Juba.
The communique also revealed the establishment of a ministerial team to be sent to Juba to assess the stalled peace talks, with the goal of fostering “inclusive dialogue” among the parties involved.