Dear Ambassador Natalina Edward Mou,
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding alarming reports indicating that South Sudanese men in Khartoum are facing grave danger. According to a credible source with family ties in Sudan, it has been observed that when the Sudanese government secures control over certain areas, South Sudanese individuals are often targeted and killed by the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF), frequently under the pretext of being affiliated with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Likewise, when the RSF assumes control, South Sudanese citizens encounter similar threats. Those who remain in these conflict-ridden areas find themselves with limited options. Some managed to escape to safety, and many others, particularly those with financial means, have successfully fled the violence.
We must call upon both factions through the African Union (AU) to cease the killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan. We must advocate for the safe evacuation of those still in Khartoum, ensuring their protection from harm by the RSF or the Sudanese Armed Forces. Should diplomatic efforts prove ineffective, it is vital to encourage the South Sudan representative at the United Nations General Assembly to address this pressing issue BY facilitating discussions aimed at airlifting foreign nationals who remain in Khartoum. The ongoing violence against foreign nationals, especially South Sudanese citizens, perpetrated by military forces, must be brought to the attention of both leaders.
The circumstances in Khartoum are extremely concerning. Since April 2023, the Sudanese army and the paramilitary RSF have been engaged in a violent conflict. Recently, the Sudanese army initiated a significant offensive to reclaim control over critical regions in Khartoum. This escalation has resulted in considerable civilian casualties and extensive damage to vital infrastructure.
The ongoing conflict has displaced millions, leading to a profound humanitarian crisis. South Sudanese individuals residing in Sudan, who previously had no means of escape, are now facing severe challenges, including threats to their lives from both factions. It is imperative that those with diplomatic influence take proactive measures to address this situation, rather than remaining passive observers.
Both the Sudanese army and the RSF, along with the government, must recognize that stability in Sudan is in the best interest of South Sudan, particularly given the economic ties, such as oil supply and construction materials. Achieving peace would greatly benefit South Sudan, as our citizens are suffering in numerous ways due to this conflict. It is important to clarify that South Sudanese citizens and the government do not oppose Sudan and have not taken sides in this war. The targeting of our people by both the RSF and the Sudanese army is deeply troubling and warrants urgent attention.
Your diplomatic engagement in this matter would significantly support the South Sudanese community in Khartoum.
Best regards!
The author, Tito Tiel, is a concerned South Sudan citizen who lives in Canada. For more information, you can reach the author via titotiel@gmail.com.