The presence of Ugandan troops in South Sudan has reignited concerns about the enforcement of international agreements and the protection of civilian lives. Amnesty International is urging the UN Security Council to renew a renewed arms embargo on South Sudan, citing a "clear breach" of the order due to Uganda's unnotified deployment.
Amnesty alleges that the initial justification for the deployment was not communicated to the UN Security Council, which has raised questions about the role of regional actors in conflict resolution. President Salva Kiir's request for assistance was reportedly made without notifying the UN Security Council, highlighting the need for greater transparency and coordination between international partners.
The situation underscores the importance of upholding international law and protecting civilian lives, as advocated by Amnesty International. The organization is calling for urgent action to end child rights abuses, which have become a daily occurrence in South Sudan. They demand an immediate ceasefire, respect for international law, unimpeded humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and the release of detainees.
Amnesty regional director Tigere Chagutah argues that the embargo is essential to prevent a worsening of the crisis, warning that without it, the situation would be catastrophic, putting children at risk from hunger, disease, and contaminated water.