An UNMISS crew member and numerous members of forces belonging to the Parties to the Revitlised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) lost their lives, with many others sustaining serious injuries.  

At the outset, RJMEC conveys condolences to all the bereaved families, following the unfortunate and avoidable act of violence. RJMEC calls upon all the Parties involved to immediately cease any further hostilities, give dialogue a chance and ensure calm is quickly restored. 

In this regard, the Commission appeals to the Presidency of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to take all necessary actions to further de-escalate the situation.  The Commission further urges the Joint Defence Board (JDB) to diligently exercise its command-and-control functions and responsibilities over all the organised forces. 

Additionally, the Commission urges to the National Transitional Committee (NTC) to expeditiously fastrack the unification and deployment of all forces to maintain peace throughout the country to avert the recurrence of such incidents in the future. 

With barely two weeks into the extended Transitional Period, violations of the Permanent Ceasefire threaten the gains made over the past seven years since the Revitalized Peace Agreement was signed, and undermines confidence among South Sudan people, regional and international community. 

Lastly, RJMEC asks the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), to undertake a verification mission to the area, and provide a detailed report with recommendations.