"Agreement to stop fighting in South Sudan needs to be upheld," says SRSG David Shearer as thousands flee renewed clashes in Leer

UN Special Representative and Head of UNMISS, David Shearer has described the situation in Leer as ‘disappointing’ as thousands flee their homes following an escalation of fighting in the area over recent days.

Mr. Shearer paid a visit to Leer on Tuesday, to get a firsthand account of the situation and the impact of the fighting on the populations.

While there, the Special Representative said he saw disturbing evidence of burned houses, children shot and injured and effects of cattle raiding on the communities.

Mr. Shearer met with the Deputy Governor of Southern Liech, John Matip Gatluak and the SPLM-IO Deputy Governor for Liech, General Joseph Nhial. The SRSG explained the importance of dialogue with both sides.

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