UN condemns recent clashes in Wau, South Sudan

The United Nations Security Council has condemned the recent attacks between Sudan’s People Liberation Army and armed groups in Wau, South Sudan that forced tens of thousands to flee their homes.

“The members of the Security Council expressed deep alarm at the fighting in Wau, South Sudan which broke out on June 24 and has resulted in the displacement of an estimated 70,000 people, including 12,000 sheltering near the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS) base in Wau,” read the UNSC statement on Friday.

The members of the UN Security Council further acknowledged the formation of the investigation committee by the Transitional Government of National Unity and urged that it investigates the attacks and hold those responsible to account.

The members of the Security Council expressed appreciation for UNMISS’s efforts to carry out its protection of civilians mandate

“The members of the Security Council expressed appreciation for UNMISS’s efforts to carry out its protection of civilians mandate. While the members of the Security Council underscored the importance of the role of UNMISS in the protection of civilians, the primary responsibility for protection of civilians in South Sudan remains with the Transitional Government of National Unity,” the UNSC’s Press Statement on Friday concluded.

Members of the Security Council also expressed deep concerns over the ongoing violence throughout the country and called for action to restore peace.