10-07-2016, Djibouti: It is with deep sadness that the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) learnt of the eruption of fresh violence in Juba, South Sudan, on July 08 during which forces allied to the different factions of the unity government engaged in deadly armed battles.
IGAD condemns in the strongest terms possible these violent acts which have once again placed the long suffering people of South Sudan in unspeakable harm`s way.
IGAD abhors the loss of lives and fears for civilian casualties if the situation is not contained immediately, and urges all concerned to exercise restraint and demonstrate true leadership by doing all they can to stop the violence.
The leaders of South Sudan should honour the promise they made to the people of South Sudan five years ago on 9th July 2011 when the country became independent. It was then declared that peace would prevail and development and democracy would be guaranteed. IGAD hopes that these noble pledges will be honoured and the leaders would close ranks with the peace-loving citizens of South Sudan whose only wish is for the bloodshed to stop immediately. ###