In South Sudan, a deadly attack on a United Nations helicopter has left a UN crew member among the deceased. The incident occurred as the UN crew attempted to airlift soldiers following intense clashes in Nasir, involving national forces and the White Army militia. The White Army is linked to forces loyal to Riek Machar, the first vice-president of South Sudan. This attack has further strained the already fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Machar.
The government has yet to comment on the detentions of several officials in connection with recent unrest, with only the peacebuilding minister released from custody. Other detained officials include the petroleum minister and the deputy head of the army, who remain either in custody or under house arrest.
President Salva Kiir has called for calm among citizens, emphasizing that the nation will not revert to war.
“I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war. Let no one take law into their hands.” – Salva Kiir
The UN mission in South Sudan, established soon after the country gained independence from Sudan in 2011, comprises nearly 20,000 peacekeepers from 73 countries. The mission's head, Nicholas Haysom, condemned the helicopter attack as "utterly abhorrent," suggesting it might constitute a war crime under international law. The UN has called for an investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
The International Crisis Group’s Horn of Africa director, Alan Boswell, has expressed concern over South Sudan's rapid slide toward full-blown war, exacerbated by recent clashes between forces allied with Kiir and Machar. Information Minister Michael Makuei reported that approximately 27 troops were killed in the attack.
Despite these tensions, President Kiir remains committed to peace.
“The government which I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast in the path of peace,” – Salva Kiir
The UN echoed Kiir's sentiments, labeling Friday's incident as a potential war crime and urging swift investigative action.