The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said it is deeply concerned about reported mobilisation of armed Nuer youth in the Greater Jonglei area.
In a statement extended to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday, the Mission said such mobilisations have the potential to trigger violent attacks that can gravely impact the civilian population.
“Any such upsurge of conflict will undermine recent peace gains achieved through a rapprochement between the leaders of Jonglei state and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA),” the statement read in part.
The Mission appreciated proactive engagements by the government of South Sudan with involved youth leaders to de-escalate hostilities and restore calm.
“While the primary responsibility for protecting civilians lies with the Government, UNMISS continues to deploy all available resources and make every effort to ensure the safety and security of affected populations,” it said.
The Mission calls on leaders of the Lou Nuer and Murle communities to exert positive and constructive influences on their youth groups, encouraging them to embrace dialogue and refrain from using violence as a means of resolving grievances.
The Mission also urged community leaders to ensure the release of previously abducted women and children, and the return of looted cattle to their rightful owners, to foster reconciliation and respect for fundamental human rights.
Communities of the greater Jonglei state have for long been wrangling leading to cattle raids, child abductions and killings.