Statement by Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, at the Security Council meeting on South Sudan.
I will make three points.
First, the United Kingdom remains concerned by the deterioration in the political situation in South Sudan, described in the Secretary-General's report. Violations of the Revitalized Agreement, exclusionary reshuffles, and the systematic sidelining of opposition voices, undermine the peace process.
We call on the transitional Government of South Sudan to urgently recommit to inclusive political dialogue and to restore civic space. The ongoing detention and trial of First Vice President Machar represents a serious risk to South Sudan's fragile peace process. Progress on election preparations should accelerate, with meaningful participation from all stakeholders.
Second, the volatile security situation, including clashes between the two largest parties to the peace agreement, continues to threaten civilians and undermine humanitarian operations. This is happening at a time when the humanitarian crisis is worsening.
Flooding since late May, has displaced hundreds of thousands and worsened food insecurity, leaving over 7.5 million people struggling to access adequate food. Cholera and the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan have further strained resources. While reconciliation efforts have reduced intra-communal violence in some areas, cross-border and cattle-related conflicts persist.
The United Kingdom urges all parties to return immediately to the nationwide ceasefire. We further call on the transitional Government of South Sudan to remove bureaucratic barriers and allow safe, timely humanitarian access to all areas of South Sudan.
Third, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS, plays a vital role in protecting civilians, supporting reconciliation, and promoting human rights. It is critical that UNMISS is able to implement its mandate without impediment. It is deeply regrettable that the mission continues to face violations of the Status of Forces Agreement.
The United Kingdom urgently calls on the transitional Government of South Sudan to cooperate fully and unequivocally with the mission, including unrestricted access and operational freedom.
