Ngok Dinka officials in the contested Abyei territory between Sudan and South Sudan expressed concern about the security situation should the United Nations security mission withdraw on 15 October.

In late May 2014, the UN Security Council renewed the mandate of the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) until 15 October 2014. UNISFA's mandate includes taking necessary actions to protect civilians under imminent threat of physical violence.

Sultan Bulabek Chol Akuei, an Abyei chief, said the withdrawal of UNISFA from Abyei will worsen the security situation.

He attributed his concern to seasonal migration of the Misseriya Arab nomadic tribe into the area.

Speaking to Abyei Today, several Ngok Dinka officials have criticized the role of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in the area.

They accused the UNISFA of failing to protect the citizens of Abyei, saying the mandate provided for the withdrawal of Sudanese Armed Forces and SPLA forces in the contested area.

UNISFA’s Force spokesman Daniel Odekera said the mission it not responsible for cattle thefts in the area.

He pointed out that the withdrawal of Sudanese forces from the north of Abyei is a political matter, saying their responsibility is confined to provision of security to citizens.

Daniel further said UNISFA has been repeatedly requesting Khartoum and Juba to deploy joint police forces in order to restore stability in the region.

When asked about the renewal of the UNISFA’s mandate, the spokesman said it is unknown until now whether it will be renewed or not.

File photo: Armoured personnel carriers of the UN Interim Security Force in Abyei (Radio Tamazuj)