This archive report was first published on 8 May 2020.
On May 7, 2020, the UN envoy for South Sudan, David Shearer, called on the country's leaders to accelerate the implementation of the 2018 peace deal to achieve lasting peace in the nation.
The head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) expressed concern that delays in forming state governments have contributed to a breakdown in rule of law, resulting in an increase in inter-communal violence across the country.
Shearer emphasized that the recent defection of key opposition figures from the Sudan People's Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLM-IO) to the army led by President Salva Kiir signals problems within the unity government.
"We have seen an increase in inter-communal violence because the governors are not there to stop it," Shearer said, highlighting the need for the unity government to appoint state governors, form a reconstituted parliament, and complete security arrangements to move the peace process forward.
Shearer also urged the unity government to focus on trust-building among its members to foster a spirit of unity and togetherness.
