Juba, Dec 29, (dpa/GNA) – The European Union and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), have called for an immediate end to the violence in the East African country.
All those involved in the conflict must be held accountable, including those who instigate and incite violence, they said in a joint statement on Wednesday.
According to the authorities, at least 60 people were killed in recent clashes in the Greater Pibor administrative region in the state of Jonglei, among them many women and children. Fighters from a youth militia are said to be responsible.
The UN mission offered to support the South Sudanese transitional government, in protecting the civilian population.
South Sudan has been independent since 2011. In 2013, civil war broke out in the oil-rich and conflict-ridden country, resulting in the deaths of thousands and causing millions to flee.
Despite a peace agreement five years ago, various armed groups continue to fight for more influence. For about two years, the country has been led by a fragile transitional government headed by President Salva Kiir, and former rebel leader Riek Machar.
GNA