We, the women of South Sudan, are deeply concerned and strongly condemn the escalating violence in our country, particularly the recent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, that erupted on February 14, 2025. We extend our deepest condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for the tragic loss of their crew member and to all the families mourning their loved ones lost in this conflict.
We are profoundly alarmed by the growing threats to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative, both of which are now at serious risk of collapsing amidst rising political instability and insecurity. These troubling developments are reigniting fears of a return to full-scale war.
The lives lost are not mere statistics; they represent brothers, sisters, children, and future leaders of our nation. What will become of South Sudan if the future of this young generation is not protected?
We are also extremely worried about the slow progress and ongoing challenges in fully implementing the R-ARCSS, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the transition process. The lack of momentum threatens to undermine peace efforts.
We therefore call upon:
- The leadership of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) and political party leaders to take immediate steps toward de-escalating tensions and embracing peaceful dialogue. We also urge them to issue a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to stability and the protection of all citizens.
- Parties to the R-ARCSS to commit to protecting civilians, women, and other vulnerable populations, ensuring their safety, and accelerating the unification and deployment of all forces required to restore peace and security to the country.
- Peace guarantors and mechanisms including the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM, R-JMEC,) the African Union (AU), and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to intensify their efforts in monitoring and reporting on violations of the R-ARCSS and hold all parties accountable for breaches.
- The international community to support efforts to conduct an independent investigation into the violence and hold those responsible for these crimes accountable. This is critical for lasting peace and justice.
- The United States, United Kingdom, and Norway (TROIKA) and other diplomatic missions to apply maximum pressure on South Sudan’s leaders to fully implement the R-ARCSS and fulfill their commitments to peace and stability.
- The White Army and its leadership to denounce violence, call for a ceasefire, and engage in peaceful dialogue with the government and community leaders.
- The public to refrain from hate speech, inciting propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation that only escalate tensions and deepen divisions within our communities.
- All stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to a peaceful and inclusive transition process.
We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this violent conflict, especially women and girls, and reaffirm our call for peace, now and always.
Cc:
Office of the President – Republic of South Sudan Office of the First Vice President
Office of the Vice President for Gender and Youth Cluster
Office of the Vice President for Service Cluster
Office of the Speaker, National Transitional Legislative Assembly
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
Ministry of Cabinet Affairs
Ministry of Interior
Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare
Intergovernmental Authority on Development( IGAD)
Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring & Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM)
Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC)
African Union ( AU)
Diplomatic Missions
