The United Nations says the ongoing conflict in Sudan is causing instability in South Sudan, where economic difficulties and political uncertainty are worsening.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, stated that the negative impacts of the Sudan conflict are affecting South Sudan, evident in the unrest in Juba and other areas following the reported killings of South Sudanese in Wad Madani.
Haysom noted that the price of an average food basket has surged by 200 percent, inflation is at 107 percent, and nearly ten months of government salaries remain unpaid.
Additionally, the South Sudanese government has asked UNMISS to vacate part of its headquarters within 45 days, a request Haysom described as creating significant costs and a logistical schedule that we currently cannot meet.
He pointed out that restrictions on peacekeepers in certain regions further hinder UNMISS operations but reaffirmed the mission’s dedication to constructive dialogue through the High-Level Coordination Committee.
On his part, Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, Charles Tai Gituai stated Economic instability has worsened due to interruptions in oil exports, a vital revenue source for South Sudan, due to the conflict in the Republic of Sudan.
He added that the main pipeline that carries about 60 percent of crude oil to Port Sudan has been damaged and remains unrepaired, leading to a significant drop in revenue.
Amid these difficulties, worries about the integrity of upcoming elections are prominent.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, emphasized that credible elections depend on essential actions from the government.
