UN concerned about militia build-up in South Sudan

The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (Unmiss) has expressed concern about the latest reports of a build-up of ethnic-linked militia known as Agwelek in Upper Nile state in the north.

It has appealed to national and community leaders to “exercise restraint and commit to peace and dialogue”.

“The mission urges these forces, loyal to General Johnson Olony, to refrain from any actions or movements that might pose threats to civilians and affect humanitarian operations,” Unmiss said on Wednesday.

The latest reports of military escalation surfaced just days before the historic visit of Pope Francis this week.

On Tuesday, the embassies of Norway, the UK, and the US, issued a joint press statement saying they had “noted with grave concern” an indication of preparation for renewed fighting in Upper Nile.

They urged traditional leaders and political actors to prevent it and find a peaceful and sustainable solution.

They also called on the government of South Sudan to hold accountable those responsible for violence, including the most recent clashes in Upper Nile, Jonglei and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area – as well as those who have engaged in human rights violations, abductions and human trafficking .