Mystery piece: SPLM-IO secret of the General’s death!

Today’s resignation of Col. Nyarji Jermlili Roman, there is revelation of a weakness that can only benefit the rest of the rebels and the government troops itself. As a key sentence from Col. Nyarji Jermlili Roman that said:

“Finally, it is worth mentioning that, over three years, you intentionally failed to supply our forces in Equatoria with arms and the necessary logistical support, an act that endangered many of our men’s lives because their capacity to defend themselves was greatly affected, hence the death of Gen. Elias Lino Jada, and Gen. Martin Kenyi, among others” (Col. Nyarji Jermlili Roman, 11.03.2017).

Even reports in the mid-year last year showed that he was a powerful rebel and an important ally of the SPLM-IO rebellion towards the SPLM/A. This with the Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin with his own outfit National Democratic Movement (NDM) and the newly created by Lt. Gen. Thomas Cirilo Swaka with his National Salvation Front (NSF), who is now co-operating with Gen. Khalid Butros Bora of the South Sudanese Democratic Movement (SSDM).

So the SPLM/A has enough rebel outfits with military experience on their hands as the Japanese peacekeepers are leaving, but the greed of foreign workers paying $10,000 United States Dollars (USD) for visa in the South Sudan. That must be to get enough revenue to pay for the military operations and to battle the rebellions.

Certainly the SPLM-IO earns on the many more rebellions as the government forces has troubles to contain them alone, still the defeats of respected rebels like General Matin Kenyi, the General Staff of Training and seen as the leader of the Equatorians. Even in 2016 he was the ones who raided in Yumbe district in Uganda. So, the rebel was known also outside of South Sudan.

So this leader and rebel were important to the struggle of Dr. Riek Machar and SPLM-IO. The only proof of his death before was a little tweet by The Bell South Sudan, who wrote on the 14^th August 2016 that he died in a battle in Lobonok and he died together with 14 more persons. Therefore, this today is the second message of his death, but since it is the Deputy Spokesperson of SPLM-IO.

The proof that SPLM-IO wanted it buried and not told is evident. As if died in August 2016 and it is now revealed, the SPLM-IO we’re afraid if more people wanted to leave and if the Equatorial states. Certainly the SPLA and the government can be proud of this moment, as the important generals and training officers is dying. Therefore, there is weakness in the SPLM-IO when they keeps silent of the death of central command.

The accountability by the rebels is not a good sign if they we’re to rule, they would just be other former warlords to rule the republic. As they cannot excel with information of the losses and then you cannot trust if they are really winning. Since their reports will be biased and less sincere as the withheld information is vital to their leadership, like the fall of the leader of Kenyi.

We can only wonder what sort of brigades that has been lost or vital positions, as the SPLM-IO want to seem stronger and wiser than they actually seem to be. SPLM/A are the winner in this one, even as the amount of rebels are rising on all fronts, and the wish for another less greedy and less corrupt Central Government. President Salva Kiir Mayardiit seen like a lost soul with the resignations and deflections, but with this he seems a bit stronger; since the SPLM-IO and Dr. Riek Machar cannot tell of their losses. It gets released with more people deserting from him as well, as SPLM/A has people creating their own outfits. The whole picture becomes more scattered as the famine and more issues approach.

Certainly, SPLM-IO has lost a vital and important General in Martin Kenyi, another reason for not telling about it and spelling out to the world about his fall. As his important position both locally and for training of soldiers must been seen as giant beating from SPLA. Therefore, President Kiir knows that his army has done something big in the late 2016 to weaken the rebels. Peace.

Press Statement: Troika statement clarifies there was no letter asking for changes to Government positions (21.06.2016)

JUBA, South Sudan, June 21, 2016 –  The Troika wish to clarify that the allegation of having sent a letter demanding changes to Government positions is false.  The Troika and its partners remain committed to working with the Transitional Government of National Unity, and all its Ministers, to ensure a coherent approach to the economic challenges faced by South Sudan.

Who is this General Martin Kenyi? The one South Sudanese Rebel supposed to be behind the insurgence in Yumbe!

As the reports were of the killings and even abduction in Yumbe District recently, the Police and Army have been silence. I just saw one note and one name of the leader of the South Sudanese rebel and his group that seeming is based in Equatoria. I will look into how where and what. The Gen. Kenyi have done it before, even in December 2014, the same rebels went into Uganda and killed. So there is a history of these actions with this man.

In November 2014:

“”bushes and forest is only for Dinka and Nuer, Equatorians cannot manage the forests”.Kiir quotedly said” (…)”Martin Kenyi had 50 houses in Juba and what we will do we will just confiscate all those houses and he will return back here” Salva Kiir on the rebellion of General Martin Kenyi!” (…)”Gen. Martin Kenyi is yet to declare himself, however, youth in various towns of Equatoria from Nimule, Maridi to Yei have not been in good terms with the SPLA-Juba forces”(Nyamilepedia, 28.11.2014).

In December 2014:

“General Martin Kenyi is urging all the patriotic elements in Juba and Equatoria in general to abandon the bloodthirsty regime of Salva Kiir and his cohorts from Warrap and Awiel and join the SPLM/SPLA, the forces of change and revolution” (SPLA/SPLM, 16.12.2014).

In July 2015 the United States Mission in Juba released a letter that proclaimed who the Sudan Government supports in the new South Sudanese state, as the resentment between Juba and Khartoum have lingered. Still the letter show that logistical help from the Government of Sudan. Here is the letter:

Also this letter show his posistion earlier: 

In January 2016:

“Close sources to JJ Okot, confirmed by other higher sources in the Military elite, with insiders knowledge, revealed that a highly secretive meeting with its minutes classified, was conducted by the chief of general staff, Paul Malong, Defense Minister Koul Manyang Juuk, and the die hard kiir’s supporter J.J Akot, to ensure, General Martin Kenyi does not live and must be assassinated” (Nyamile, 08.01.2016).

In February 2016:

“We equatorians have been suppressed and treated as second class citizens in our own country. Our land has been grabbed in our own eyes. Our women and daughters have been rapped in our present. Dictator Kiir himself got two teenage girls pregnant in Catholic church as good living example. Because of all these grievances, we have joined Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon to unseat tyranny Dictator’s regime and replace it with Federal Republic of South Sudan whereby state will have its own autonomy. Twenty-one states, under federal system, are our number one choice to get rid of marginalization and live free in our own land. We will take back our land that they have illegally grabbed.” said Brig. General Martin Kenyi.

Gen. Martin Kenyi explained: “Now, I am General Martin Kenyi. I am from Equatoria. I am also part of that JMEC. I represent IO…..We have presented initially 83 cantonment sites. These 83 cantonment sites included cantonment areas in Equatoria and Bahr El Ghazal. When we came to Juba, in the process of our deliberation; these cantonment areas have been asked to be reduced. We have reduced our cantonment areas to 36. The government has 11 cantonment sites. The government does not have cantonment areas in Equatoria and Bahr El Ghazal- but we do. And this has never been challenged…” (Radio Tamazuj, 18.05.2016).

SPLA Reaction to the rebels recently:

“In their letter of complains directed to Salva Kiir and JMEC, a copy obtained by this news site, the group warned Kiir and his men of retaliatory attacks unless Kiir ends hostilities and unlawful arbitrary arrests which terrorizes the entire region of Magwi County, “we will not rest but shall protect our land and families in face of continued aggression directed towards our people” said the letter” (…)”This week the SPLA-Kiir invaded Dereto, a village near Moli Tokuro, and arrested several people including women, many of the arrested people allegedly have been tortured; one particular eye witness recounted the moment the soldiers arrived in the village at the time many of the villagers were still in their beds early morning. The soldiers demanded the villagers to produce the members of “the rebels of General Kenyi” who live in the area because the soldiers claimed they had heard gun sounds/shots in the previous evening” (…)”The invading soldiers accused Loku Tony John and many other young men who were rounded up from their homes in the early morning of being rebels. After they were tortured and thrown in an open pick-up truck they were driven to Moli Tokuro SPLA barracks, since then their relatives did not hear from them, apparently they were said to have been badly tortured and being kept in inhumane conditions” (…)”The group in its letter a copy seen by SSLN, urged the president not to put the interest of the cows first but to focus on uniting the people of South Sudan rather than engineering his tribal gangs to escalate more war base on ethnicity. “ Kiir must make up his mind if he wants peace let him pursue peace, if he still thirst for war he will get it the same measure as he would like to take the war to other people” read the letter partly” (…)”The group warned Kiir of escalating tension in what is known as relatively calm region of Magwi County. “If he pursue others, his men too shall be pursued, guaranteed”, “do unto others as you would like them to do unto you.” Added the letter” (May 14^th 2016 – “Kiir Continues to Give orders to Arrest Civilians in Mwagi County Eastern Equatoria State).

“As things stand for now subsequently, there was a high level of preparation to surround and crash the SPLA-IO forces in Bahr El Ghazal and greater Equatoria. Kiir still believe the genuine popular uprising in the Bahr el Ghazal and Equatorian regions must be suppress and crash out by use of military as he and his tribal elders who want to rule South Sudan base on their Dinka belief of the born to rule” (…)”The government believe the rebel forces in these areas have different interests, thus in the mind of Kiir and his tribal Jieng Council of Elder these groups are not part of SPLA – IO rather choose to label them as road bandits or robbers whilst accepting the leaderships such as general Alfred Lado Gore, Martin Kenyi and Gen Dau Aturjong to take part in the TGoNU” (…)”It was confirmed that, as discussion is going on in the Parliament, the government had mapped the SPLA – IO forces in Bhar El Ghazal and Equatoria and continues to issue absolute rejection to recognize the two greater regions of Bahr El Ghazal and Equatoria as part of SPLA-IO” (…)”However, some of Kiir’s very own military generals from the two excluded regions expressed their dismay, they said the authoritarian regime led by Kiir is not ready to embrace its lips service slogan of “ one people, one nation,” “Since the government believe in its military power, the future of the negotiated peace is unpredictable, though nobody have appetite to fight senseless war again, but the people of this great nation have no choice than to liberation themselves from tyranny if reform is not given a priority” said the heavy weight generals who asked for their names not to be reveal as the matter is still on discussion” (May 23^rd 2016 – “The Dinka Centric SPLM-Kiir, Rejected cantonment for the 3^rd time for SPLM-IO Forces in Bhar El Ghazal and Equatorian Regions”).

Afterthought:

The general, who have been a part of the liberation struggle, is now a rebel against the SPLA/SPLM. So after my digging he have an issue with the Juba Government and such. Still, he has even in the past entered into Uganda with rebels and killed. Therefore that General Martin Kenyi is now a direct enemy of President Kiir, as he has not only confiscated his houses in Juba, but now wanting to get rid of him. So there will not be a an agreement between these two “the Way” it went with Dr. Riek Machar and his SPLM-IO.

The troops of SPLM-IO might have harbored the rebels of Gen. Kenyi, as there are some reports of, certainly Machar would have used any guns he could get. And would not be surprised if President Bashir really supervised with logistical help to Gen. Kenyi and his rebels; as Bashir wants to do what he can to weaken Juba and that government. So we are at point where Gen. Kenyi is not only problem for Juba, but can be for Kampala, as Kiir is friendly with Museveni and when they are friend and the borders are porous, than he and his rebels can easily cross from South Sudan to the Northern Uganda. Therefore the UPDF should either corporate with the SPLA, or ask to help if they want this rebel general. That with the knowledge that Gen. Kenyi has a grand standing with the population in the Equatorial State and in Bahr El Gahzal; so the government have to take a stand of how friendly they want to be amongst one of their big-men. Peace.

South Sudan rebel leader arrives in Juba, Fidelis Mbah weighs in (Youtube-Clip)

Quotes and Outtakes from the newest UN Report on Violence in South Sudan!

Here is the basic outtake from a report that was released on the 9^th March 2016 from the United Nations Office of Human Rights Council. This focused on the matters of human rights and dignity, as it looks at the laws and regulations, how the state affairs with the matter and create safety and security for their people while not taken away their trust and their justice as free men and woman. As the Government of South Sudan has signed and ratified certain statues and human rights laws into their own as a civilized government who want to be respected and seen as a respectable state.

The major problems and issues is not only stemming from sexual violence towards the public as many has addressed, I have also taken that into the picture, but I want to show you the more of it, but not go into the laws and the ratifications, as that is important. For the moment we should all just see the pains that have unjustified hit many of the South Sudanese as the differences between Generals has hurt them. Take a look!

Internally Displaced Persons in South Sudan:

“By December 2014, more than 1.4 million South Sudanese had been displaced internally, while approximately 467,000 people had fled to surrounding countries. Additionally, roughly four million people in the country faced serious food insecurity. Humanitarian access continued to be hampered by fighting and violence perpetrated by both parties to the conflict against aid workers, equipment and infrastructure. In Unity and Upper Nile states, active hostilities and insecurity continued to disrupt humanitarian assistance as well as, road and air access” (…)”By mid-December 2014, more than 100,000 civilians were housed in UNMISS compounds – designated “protection of civilians sites” (POC sites) – because they were too afraid to return home, fearing potential violence. The bulk of these internally displaced persons (IDPs) were in Bentiu (43,000 people), Juba (32,000) and Malakal (17,000)” (UN OHRC, 2016)

Violence against IDPs:

“For example in Bentiu the SPLA soldiers have taken aggressive postures towards civilians in the PoC site. On 30 September, UNMISS witnessed approximately 20 SPLA soldiers in uniform, including child soldiers, outside the entrance of the PoC site pointing their weapons, including a vehicle with a mounted machine gun” (UN OHRC, 2016).

In Lakes State:

“In Lakes State, inter-communal conflict among different Dinka clans has continued despite efforts by the Government and state authorities to defuse tensions. Revenge attacks, including acts of sexual violence, continued in relation to the killing of a Paramount Chief in Cuei-Chok Payam on 5 August. In response to the violence, the Government has increased its security presence in the State. However, this has given rise to further violations as a result of heavy handed measures sometimes adopted by the security forces” (UN OHRC, 2016).

In Easter Equatoria:

“Eastern Equatoria has also witnessed major incidents of inter-communal violence, including on 6 December, in Loronyo, Torit, where several civilians, including women and children were killed. Reports received indicated that human rights violations were committed by security forces sent to the area in response to the violence, including sexual violence and looting of property. Likewise, the deterioration in the security situation in Chukudum in Budi County, Eastern Equatoria, in September and October, led to allegations of human rights violations by the SPLA, including arbitrary detention, torture and extra-judicial killings” (UN OHRC, 2016).

In Western Equatoria:

“In Western Equatoria, the influx of armed Dinka pastoralists from Lakes and Jonglei with their large numbers of cattle has seen an increase in tension with host communities, particularly in the Mundri West County areas.  In Central Equatoria State, UNMISS monitored developments in clashes between the Kuku and Madi communities spanning the border between Kajo Keji in South Sudan and Moyo district in Uganda, resulting in several deaths in both communities and the displacement of between 8,000 and 10,000 civilians from the Ugandan side to the South Sudanese side of the border” (UN OHRC, 2016).

Conflict related sexual violence:

“State officials allege that at least 20 women were abducted from Souq sabi, Dere, and Lich University and taken to Guit and Nhialdiu. Allegations have also been made that SPLM/A-IO used rape as a punishment for suspected Government sympathizers” (…)”In another incident, in December, three women out of a group of 30 were reportedly raped by SPLA soldiers while proceeding to a village located near the PoC site in Bentiu, after soldiers allegedly asked them to join them and then shot at the group” (…)”Incidents of sexual violence have also been reported in the context of inter-communal violence. In Lakes State, women and children have reportedly been used as proxies for revenge, including through rape. In Rumbek East, the allegation that the paramount chief of the Guony clan was murdered by the Thuyic clan reportedly ignited a wave of retaliatory attacks, including reports of rape against women and children” (UN OHRC, 2016).

Child Soldiers:

“Child soldiers have been observed in Bentiu, Malakal and Kuajok. Between September and November, UNICEF documented more than 70 incidents of grave violations against children affecting more than 2,000 children” (…)”During the reporting period, the SPLA issued new orders prohibiting the recruitment and use of children by the SPLA as well as occupation of schools. On 8 October, the United Nations submitted to the Government and SPLA a list of 20 schools reportedly used by the SPLA for military purposes” (UN OHRC, 2016).

I think the words in the reports say’s enough and I won’t comment on it; as the violence and actions are so straightforward and harsh. The people are victims and the reasons behind it should be sorted out. As they are violated, injured, harassed and killed by armies and militias while they are searching for power or keeping power. Peace.

Reference:

UN Human Rights Council – A/HRC/28/49: “Report on the human rights situation in South Sudan” (09.03.2016)

Mzee has hired buses to ferry people from Rwanda and South Sudan to vote for him in the coming polls!

Have you wondered if there are rumores of people crossing the borders to vote from Mzee, then you have it now; as the Mzee can’t help it as he has seen the popularity for other candidates then himself? NRM have ferried people for months now to the campaign rallies all over the nations, as long as they have the company to serve them. They want to extend this to be more Pan-African as the NRM can’t get their own people to vote for President Museveni. Therefore he get paid and secured votes from Rwandan and South Sudanese people. He must be proud. Here is the reports about it! Take a look, also a story of election violence and the level of fear the NRM-Regime spreads for the moment, while the Election Monitoring units walk blindly in the country!

From South Sudan:

“A trusted sources within the presidential office informed South Sudan Liberty news in anonymity that Musseveni has appeal to Salva Kiir Mayerdit to dispatch 3500 of his Kin, the Dinka, to cast fraudulent votes for Musseveni comes 18 February 2016, at the Ugandan presidential general elections. Additional informants observed several buses left Juba, early this Saturday morning,with bus loads of Dinka headed to Uganda. It is estimated by the end of this weekend, 2500 Dinkas would have been ferried to Uganda. The exact City destinations of these electorate Mercenaries remains unclear” (SouthSudanLiberty.com, 2016).

From Rwanda:

“Most of us Rwandese here will board next week to Uganda to vote for Museveni, I can see Museveni funds here in Gitarama Rwanda being shared for transport etc. We shall vote from Kisoro District and others in Kamwezi- Kabale district. Buses have been hired and we shall board on Sunday 14th and settle in our nearest polling stations where we registered from ahead of Uganda elections on 18th Feb”.

Election Violence 12.02.2016:

“Army vehicle no D01DF-045 a green Toyota land cruiser with armed soldiers is moving along Kakiri – Hoima road, stopping in some villages threatening to arrest and wisk-away opposition supporters- they are intimidating people that if you don’t vote Museveni, they going to kill you- be vigilant and communicate to each other about any such things! Keep evidence as well!” (Uganda Youth Platform).

I think that is enough. Peace.

Reference:

South Sudan Liberty – ‘FRAUD AT ITS HIGHEST ORDERS, 3500 DINKA HEADED TO JOIN OTHERS DISPLACED IN UGANDA TO VOTE FOR MUSSEVENI IN THE COMING UGANDAN PRESIDENTIAL GENERAL ELECTION!!’ (13.02.2016) link: http://www.southsudanliberty.com/news/index.php/latest-news/923-fraud-at-its-highest-level-3500-dinka-headed-to-join-others-displaced-in-uganda-to-vote-for-museveni-the-coming-election-day

Press Release: Nuer Community In Uganda Strongly Rejects Salva Kiir’s Tribal 28 States (07.10.2015)

On behalf of the Nuer community in Uganda and on my behalf as the Nuer community chairman in Uganda, we do here by rejecting the newly created 28 states in South Sudan by Mr. President Salva Kiir Mayardit because of the following points:

1. It is not constitutional
2. It is not the right time
3. It will promote tribalism
4. You issue that degree as punishment on South Sudanese

Subsequently, for the few reasons above mentioned we (Nuer Community in Uganda) strongly rejected the unfounded concept of creating 28 States.

In conclusion dear, Mr. president Salva Kiir Mayardit I wanted to tell you that I have discover your problem now wonder you had been sick every now and then the Doctor found nothing. This is because you are healthy physically but mentally you are sick this appears when you were issuing a degree you made unconsciously and out of anger which characterizes your psychological sickness. So I would refer you to go and see The Counseling Psychologist to deal with your trauma of KILLING over 30,000 people in South Sudan or else. You better resign because you lost yourself esteem which boosted you in good decision making. It has become low and unconscious that is why you are bringing more and more mess to the people of South Sudan.

Signed by:

STEPHEN GAI KAK GAI

CHAIRPERSON OF NUER COMMUNITY IN UGANDA

United Nations Security Risk Assessment of South Sudan by September 2015

Today is a day where I will discuss and show findings for certain UNMISS report that is from UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) its numbered: ST/SGB/2007/06. It is the United Nations Security Risk Assessment – South Sudan. It was approved 11^th September 2015! And here are some interesting findings. I think the quotes speak for themselves!

“Following the onset of the conflict in December 2013, UNMISS could not fully perform its mandate given it under Security Council resolution 1996 (2011) because of the security situation and the need to maintain impartiality. Subsequently, Security Council resolution 2155 (2014), 27 May 2014, fundamentally shifted the basis of UNMISS’ mandate from support of the Government in capacity-building in traditional UN peacebuilding areas to four key areas. In the line with the UN Security Council resolution 2223 (2015), UNMISS activities are:

• Protecting the Civilians
• Monitoring and investigating human rights
• The Creation of conditions conducive for humanitarian assistance
• Supporting the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement” (UN SRA SS P: 2-3).

“Despite the attacks on the Akobo CSB and the BOR PoC in April 2014, that were more linked with the ethnic based targeting of South Sudanese sheltering within UN premises, generally speaking the UN is not a primary target for hostilities. Moreover, the UN is more often caught in crossfire during armed conflict and access is affected as a result of armed conflict. This will continue to be a risk”(…)“The fact that UNMISS hosts over 166,000 Internally Displaced People (IDP) increases the UN’s operational risk profile and reputation” (…)”PoC sites are volatile with the potential that the high level of tension amongst the IDPs may spill over in violent clashes. Staff members are therefore at a higher risk working within these sites” (UN SRA SS P: 3).

“The armed conflict, which is now in its second year, followed last year’s pattern where the dry season was fighting season enabling forces to take control of vast areas of the country. During the rainy seasons (July-Nov) the roads become impassable curbing direct clashes for the period. Even with the IGAD peace agreement signed in Juba on 26. August 2015, assessment is that the country security situation in 2015/16 will remain unsecure” (UN SRA SS P: 4).

“Currently there is no mainstreaming of Security within the UN activities/ programmes. Therefore, the policy that defines that security needs to be involved at all levels of management to ensure security is considered/ mainstreamed into all the activities or programmes is not applied, specifically in UNMISS” (…)”Maintaining security training would enhance the functional expertise of all international and national staff although programme managers would need to receive training in order to learn the identity inherent and associated risks in a timely manner” (UN SRA SS P: 5).

“Peace Operation: To help implement the mandated tasks, UNMISS will consist of a military component of up to 12,500 troops of all ranks and a police component, including appropriate Formed Police Units, up to 1,323 personell” (UN SRA SS P: 9).

“Humanitarian programme assessments have indicated that, as the violence deepens, the humanitarian needs and risk to aid workers increases. 27 aid workers are presumed to have been killed in South Sudan since December 2013 and over 150 NGO staff are unaccounted for” (…)”In Juba, there have been a growing number of armed attacks against humanitarian compounds” (UN SRA SS P: 10).

“At the height of the conflict large numbers of people split over the borders into neighboring countries seeking refuge in Ethiopia, Uganda, Sudan, Kenya and Abyei; these numbers stand at approximately 510,000 individuals” (UN SRA SS P: 13).

“The increased risk specifically in Malakal and Bentiu would require an increase in the deployment of security staff and expansion of the collective security posture” (…)”As the rains of 2015 began to cut off supply lines, military offensives increasingly used riverine methods of transporting goods and fighters to the frontline. The method of delivery was also being used by humanitarian agencies to transfer large quantities of food to communities in need. In April 2015 a barge convoy hired by UNMISS to carry food and fuel supplies for the base in Malakal was attacked by RPGs and small arms fire , injured four persons. In July the government gave strict warnings that all river transportation should stop, further restricting aid delivery around the country. In September there have also been reported incidents of alleged attack on government owned barges and gunboats in Upper Nile State, the SPLA-io claimed responsibility ahead of verification” (UN SRA SS P: 14-15).

“Since the beginning of the conflict (December 2013) until June 2015, there were a total of 594 security incidents involving IDPs in UNMISS PoC sites. Cases include serious assaults, civil unrest, mob violence, robbery, death threats and harassment, and several locations have also recorded serious disruption to humanitarian operation” (…)”Continued accusations by the government actors or affiliates that the PoC sites are a sanctuary for supporters of the SPLA in Opposition also make the PoC sites a target; this point was actively demonstrated in the attack in the Bor in April 2014 resulting in the death of 55 IDPs within the UNMISS site. Similar incidents have occurred near PoC sites in Juba, Bentiu and Malakal” (…)”An outbreak of cholera started in South Sudan on 18 May 2015 reaching total of 1718 cases [dates 4 September 2015], this rapid spread is largely affecting areas of the state capital Juba and also a separate smaller spread in Bor. One death have been reported at the PoC site in Juba with a total of 76 cases of people who contracted cholera inside the site” (UN SRA SS P: 16).

“UNSMS will have to work much closer with the GoSS security agencies to ensure an improved  security response to UN security related incidences” (…)”In Juba a “blue zone” was implemented to manage the locations which were approved by UN security for International UN staff to reside in based on accessibility to the area, crime rates and distance to UN base in case of relocation and emergencies” (…)”Where the UN has a presence Operational Zones have been created where security clearances are not required in all main urban areas to allow for improved access. This approach is underscore by risk management as opposed to a risk adverse approach, this concept needs to be maintained and where possible further enhanced or monitored” (UN SRA SS P: 17).

“The disruption in oil revenues and devaluation of the currency as a result of the fighting has had a detrimental effect on the already weakened economy; government, civil servants, armed forces and police are having their salaries delayed. The breakdown in social infrastructure has reduced employment opportunities; creating desperation which has translated into crime” (…)”For example, the on-going cattle raiding and inter-clan revenge clashes that has been served in retaliation have devastated Lake States” (…)”Government officials have sometimes exacerbated tense situations with alienating remarks on their perception of the UN, often with accusations that the UN is favoring one side over the other within the conflict itself” (UN SRA SS P: 19).

“Animosity grew when the government made accusations that the UN was harboring rebels within its Protection of Civilian (POC) sites. Direct and veiled threats to attack POCs became widespread” (…)”The effect of this was in April 2014 when “armed youth” attacked the UNMISS base in Bor resulting in the deaths of 55 IDPs and injuring many others including UN peacekeepers” (…)”On 26 August 2014 under suspicious circumstances a UN contracted helicopter crashed near Bentiu in Unity State, killing three (3) aircrew and injuring one (1) other underlining the threats involved in working within South Sudan. Investigations into the cause of the crash were inconclusive” (…)”In the middle July 2015 there are approximately 166,142 people saying in seven (7) UNMISS bases (UN SRA SS P: 20).

“There is also notable internal political  friction between the Central Government and the Equatoria States who have been calling for the greater autonomy via a federal government system. This has lead to local Equatorian communities feeling threatened and evacuating their families from the area” (…)”In Jonglei state” (…)” During rainy season in 2014 there were major skirmishes between the SPLA and SPLA-io reported in Jonglei. The SPLA-io has continued to threaten to fire upon aircraft flying in the areas, which were seven of the eleven counties during this period; the last threat was on 17 July 2014” Upper Nile” (…)”Several major clashes between the SPLA and SPLA-io have occurred; during one heavy exchange some stray bullets entered the UNMISS camp killing and injuring IDPs and causing structural damage to UN resources. All UN personnel remain concentrated in UNMISS camp including several agencies who had to abandon their own compounds” (…)”Unity State” (…)”To the west of Bentiu, UN staff previously based in the former Mayom UNMISS County Support Base (CSB) regularly were “caught in cross fire” incidents when the parties to conflict attempted to take control of the strategically important town, which is principally inhabited by Bul Nuer. UN Mission and Agencies Funds and Programme (AFP) staffs have become the target with regular ambushes, the demand for their trucks, and/or fuel and the forceful attempt to board UN flight by military” (UN SRA SS P: 22). “Also in the Upper Nile UNICEF reports that 89 boys were forcibly recruited by an unnamed armed group in late February 2015. They were takin in an area currently under government control, which is defended by government-allied Shilluk militia commanded by Maj Gen Johnson Olony” (…)”There are reports of an LRA attack in Western Equatoria State in March 2015 when one person was killed, the village was looted and eleven people were abducted but four were later released. This resuming of LRA attacks has increased fear amongst the population as the last attack in the 2012” (UN SRA SS P: 23).

“The oil pipelines exit South Sudan in both Unity and Upper Nile State, oil is refined in Sudan before being exported. The potential loss of oil revenues affects both nations so good trade relations’ remains key to maintaining income” (UN SRA SS P: 23).

“Currently the flow of refugees is affecting both countries as fighting affects the communities and so they move on, in Sudan the fighting in South Kordofan has created an influx of refugees into South Sudan and the fighting in northern Unity State in South Sudan has meant many refugees travelled north to refugee sites within Sudan” (…)”Cross border grazing & migration rights also areas of dispute as they host well-armed Sudanese Misseriya cattle herders who move around South Sudan in search of feed for their animals” (UN SRA SS P: 24).

“South Sudan lacks an adequate air traffic control system, countrywide. The government took control of the country’s airspace from Sudan in 2011, but to date has not issued any “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAMs), There are areas, however, that the government has declared a “no fly zone” (i.e. over the Presidential Palace in Juba), suggesting that the government reserve the right to fire upon an aircraft that violates this airspace” (UN SRA SS P: 25).

“Use of the River Nile for transportation of UN supplies and fuel has proved difficult with the government threat against all river travel by humanitarian agencies. With military supply vessels regularly travelling the river to the frontline it is not a safe option for delivery of humanitarian provisions” (UN SRA SS P: 26).

“Communicable diseases in South Sudan constitute a major cause of morbidity and morality largely due to the limited access to clean water and sanitation being extremely poor with open defection rates, which reaches 60% in urban areas and 80% in rural areas” (UN SRA SS P: 29).

“In regards to infrastructure, the entire country remains underdeveloped. Road and air mobility is seriously jeopardized especially during the rainy season where whole regions are cut off. Electricity, food and clean water supplies are scarce and seriously impact UN operations in remote duty stations” (…)”Due to poor road conditions in both dry and rainy season and lack of infrastructure there is a heavy reliance on UNMISS and UNHAS air assets for the delivery of humanitarian aid” (UN SRA SS P: 30).

“The existing EU sanctions delivered in July 2014 had little impact on the de-escalating of the crisis, however further extensive UN sanctions were delivered in a tough UN Security Council Resolution on the 3 March 2015, the decision affects individuals through the freezing of their bank accounts and travel bans will affect all players who do not work towards peace and security. There is also an African Union (AU) report which has investigated human rights abuses last dry season which is completed but yet to be published” (UN SRA SS P: 41).

“There is an increase of visible signs of South Sudan being a failing state: there is no free media, intimidation, by government security is commonplace, economy close to collapse and lack of provision or accountability of the civilian population by the state with most funds diverted to fund the war effort. Law and order is collapsing too, in some states wages have been stolen or simply delayed for months on end, in urban area reports of police becoming active criminals, local courts do not function and reports that crimes are committed due to perpetrators acting with impunity” (…)”Large numbers of IDPs rely on the security of UNMISS peacekeeping forces for their protection, however crowd control measures can never maintain order if the IDPs turn on their protector if the tensions rise inside the confines of the POC sites, the numbers are simply overwhelming” (UN SRA SS P: 42).

Afterthought:
It is all worrying even with the Peace Agreement between the SPLA/M and SPLA-IO which signed a deal with amendments and tokens taken off. The worrying path is the records and analyses that the UN and UNMISS is delivering in this report. The numbers of people that are fleeing from South Kordofan in Sudan and the ones fleeing South Sudan to neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Uganda and DRC is massive! Should be worrying and the way the air-space is not secured. Also the reports on how the seasons are changing and making it difficult to spread necessities like food through air should be seen as a GIANT sign that something has to change. Infrastructure that is gone during rainy season and the air-drops has to happen for no open roads. River Nile isn’t safe and is in the front-line and dangerous travel with transportation of necessities though that path.

There are the issues with the skirmishes in different areas and also military assaults in the various states. Both between SPLA and SPLA-IO but they are not alone. There other military groups making it worse, also the report of even LRA has done damage in the country. Those also innocent children have been abducted and all the weakness of the security issues together with the fractions inside the SPLA making the reports and data on the ground more worrying.

On top of it all the sanctions that has been put on the Government of South Sudan and it hasn’t hit the ground running, but been useless and if it does anything it’s been just a certain individuals that has lost bank accounts, but it hasn’t stopped the fighting or stopped small-arms coming to the country!

There is so much more I could have put into ink and discussed because its powerful to see what the UNMISS is writing and discussing in the report. I have taken what I seen as main issues and fresh insights. I am sure somebody else would have taken more of the context and background into it, but that you can read somewhere else. Peace!

Reference:

United Nations Security Risk Assessment South Sudan – September 2015 – UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) & UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) – Approved 11. September 2015 – (Given out 15.09.2015)

Press statement – SPLM/SPLA Posistion on Four Neighbouring States Meeting on 10th August 2015 in Kampala (14.08.2015)

The Voice of South Sudanese Diaspora – A Statement rejecting the proposal of the IGAD-Plus reclaiming dignity (15.08.2015)