The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has raised alarm over a growing wave of armed violence and forced displacement across South Sudan, calling for urgent political action to rescue the country’s fragile peace process.
In a statement on Sunday, CEPO Executive Director Edmond Yakane voiced deep concern over the increasing trend of internal displacement caused by both natural disasters and armed group activities in multiple states including Unity, Jonglei, and Western Equatoria.
“We are seeing a disturbing pattern of internal displacement due to armed violence,” Yakane warned. “This includes areas like Morobo, Yei, Tombura, Panyijar, and parts of the Upper Nile where civilians are being pushed from their homes.”
CEPO also highlighted an emerging threat: the targeting of medical services by armed elements. Health facilities in Morobo, Tombura, and parts of Greater Pibor have reportedly been attacked or repurposed as war tools, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
“There is a dangerous trend where health assistance is being weaponized, this must stop,” Yakane emphasized. “Turning hospitals into war zones is a gross violation of human rights and international law.”
Yakane called on all political actors, including disgruntled groups and opposition forces, to embrace peaceful dialogue and refrain from harming unarmed civilians and civil institutions.
“We are now targeting civilian institutions and pushing non-combatants into displacement. These are actions that could amount to crimes against humanity,” he cautioned. “The time to act is now. Our leaders must make responsible decisions to ensure the success of this political transition.”
CEPO’s appeal comes amid mounting frustration over delays in the full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and continued insecurity across South Sudan.
