JUBA – The United States embassy in South Sudan has said that political actors in the country’s capital Juba bear responsibility for the ongoing deadly violence in Upper Nile state, though they occur in context of sub-national violence.
In a statement marking international Human Rights Day, the US embassy said that commitment to human rights has been the driving force behind the United States support to the people of South Sudan which it said remains strong.
“On Human Rights Day, we mark the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. On this occasion, we call on South Sudan’s leaders to act with urgency to end human rights violations and to hold perpetrators accountable,” it said.
“Commitment to human rights is a foundational element in the U.S. relationship with South Sudan. It has been the driving force behind U.S. support for the people of this country from its very beginning, which dates back decades before South Sudan’s independence in 2011. This commitment remains as strong as ever today,” it added.
The US government said it is concerned by the continued violence and violation of human rights in Upper Nile state most of which, it said, is within the context of subnational violence though elites in Juba bears primary responsibility.
“In that light, the United States is gravely concerned by credible reports of continued human rights violations and the impunity enjoyed by those perpetrating such acts,” it said.
“Many of these violations occur within the context of subnational violence, such as in the ongoing conflict in Upper Nile State. It is clear that political actors in Juba bear responsibility for much of the violence in Upper Nile State and must act to end it,” it added.
The statement further said the US government is “deeply concerned about sexual and gender-based violence and extrajudicial killings. Other significant violations pertain to limitations on internationally recognized rights, such as freedom of expression, that are essential elements for a stable, thriving society and open civic space. “
“Those who work to advance human rights in South Sudan are helping to build a better future for the South Sudanese people. They do so with our support and respect.”