The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which is tasked with monitoring violations of the ceasfire between South Sudan’s warring parties, said that the government is conducting a “full-scale military offensive.”
“Government forces have been conducting full-scale military offensive against opposition forces in Rubkona, Mayom, Guit, Koch and Mayendit counties in Unity State since 27 April 2015,” the IGAD special envoys said.
“It is also increasingly clear that the offensive is being expanded into Jonglei and Upper Nile States. At this critical moment, IGAD Mediators remind the warring Parties of their obligation to honor the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and Implementation Matrix that they signed on 23rd January 2014 and November 2014 respectively.”
IGAD called the actions by the government “unwarranted and appalling,” and said it is “extremely dismayed at the credible reports reaching the MVM of acts of violence targeting civilians, grave human rights abuses and destruction of villages.”
The regional body also added that it is “deeply disturbed” that government forces have prevented IGAD observers from reaching areas affected by the conflict. The monitors have been unable to travel beyond the Rubkona airfield, just 2.7 km from the UNMISS camp where the monitors are based.
Both verbal and written requests to lift these restrictions sent to the SPLA Director of Operations, as well as to the COmmander of the SPLA 4th Division and the Unity State deputy governor have not been answered.
“The full-scale military offensive taking place in Unity State since 27 April 2015, and the denial of freedom of movement to the MVT by Government forces constitute clear and significant violation of the COH Agreement,” IGAD concluded.