RJMEC condemns the killings in Abiemnom, calls for urgent investigation, accountability
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has learnt with grave concern of the horrific incident that occurred on 1 March in Abiemnom County, Ruweng Administrative Area, in which more than 160 civilians were reportedly killed, several others injured, and over a thousand displaced. Senior local government officials and members of law enforcement are also reportedly among those who lost their lives.
RJMEC condemns in the strongest possible terms these heinous acts of violence, which undermine efforts to restore lasting peace and stability and further compound the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. Such wanton attacks against civilians and public officials are occurring amid escalating hostilities and armed clashes involving some signatory Parties to the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and their affiliates, which continue to erode peace, stability and public confidence across the country.
In this regard, RJMEC takes note of the directive by the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to security organs to investigate the incident, and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable.
Furthermore, RJMEC calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities across the country, the de-escalation of tensions, the prevention of further violence, and the urgent commencement of an inclusive political dialogue.
The Commission conveys its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and further calls upon the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to undertake a prompt and comprehensive and impartial investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
In conclusion, RJMEC appeals to the humanitarian agencies and relevant stakeholders to consider scaling up necessary support to the affected population.
