By Matik Kueth
The Chairperson of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms (CTSAMVM), Maj. Gen. Yitayal Yiwal, condemned the recent shooting incident in Juba’s Tongpiny Suburb, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to prevent further violence.
Speaking at the CTSAMVM Technical Committee meeting in Juba on Wednesday, Yitayal bemoaned the use of firearms in civilian areas and expressed his disappointment in the incident that killed civilians in a crossfire.
“The ceasefire between signatory parties remains in effect in the areas monitored by CTSAMVM’s Monitoring and Verification Teams. However, I must be clear in condemning the use of firearms in close proximity to civilian areas,” Maj. Gen. Yiwal said.
He said the realization that a number of Juba residents had been killed and others injured in the tragedy was the source of the disappointment.
“My initial relief was quickly tempered by the news that some Juba citizens had been killed or wounded during the incident,” he remarked solemnly.
In light of the tragedy, Yiwal echoed the sentiments of the RJMEC Interim Chairperson, who stressed the need to fortify security measures to ensure that such incidents don’t happen again during the eighth governors’ forum held at Freedom Hall.
“I would therefore take this opportunity to reiterate the RJMEC Interim Chairperson’s comments emphasizing the need to strengthen the existing security arrangements to prevent any repeat of this violent incident,” he stressed.
The CTSAMVM chair underlined the significance of a “tangible peace dividend” in order for South Sudanese citizens to experience the advantages of peace.
“I have referenced before the need for the citizens of South Sudan to experience a tangible peace dividend,” he stated, reinforcing the role of CTSAMVM in guiding the peace process.
He further urged all parties involved in the peace effort to settle disputes amicably by using the established mediation procedures.
“We must be explicit in our messaging and beyond reproach in our actions. I, therefore, call upon all parties who desire sustainable peace in South Sudan to use the established mediation mechanisms and find peaceful solutions to resolve grievances,” he stressed.
On November 21, 2024, heavy gunfire erupted in sending shockwaves across the city after elements of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) reportedly acted on orders to relocate former security chief General Akol Koor Kuc to a detention center at the army headquarters in Bilpam.
In the process, Gen. Akol Koor-aligned bodyguards refused to hand over to their commander. The soldiers exchanged fire as a result of the rejection, killing four civilians and wounding two more. The precise identity of the person who issued the directives is still being investigated.