The border region of Abyei, disputed territory between Sudan and South Sudan, has witnessed a surge in violence resulting in the deaths of at least 75 individuals over the past 2 weeks, as conveyed by Nicholas Haysom, the UN’s representative in South Sudan.
Haysom urged the government to launch an investigation into these attacks and emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate tensions. He also appealed to community leaders to eschew violence as a means of resolution.
Ongoing conflicts between the Ngok and Twic communities in Abyei have predominantly revolved around resource disputes.
Recently, allegations emerged from a local leader accusing the South Sudanese army of collaborating with rival armed youth in orchestrating attacks—a claim promptly refuted by the military.
In response to the escalating situation, the embassies of Norway, the UK, and the US collectively urged the South Sudanese government to withdraw its troops from Abyei, aiming to prevent further violence.
Abyei, renowned for its oil wealth, has been claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan. Despite a 2011 agreement stipulating temporary administrative arrangements, human rights activists have accused both sides of breaching the terms.
Presently, UN peacekeeping troops are maintaining security in Abyei, which remains under their protection.
