David Shearer: The peace process is “faltering”

The UN special representative in South Sudan David Shearer has expressed concern over escalating intercommunal conflict in South Sudan. Briefing the United Nations Security Council on the situation in South Sudan yesterday, Shearer said the prevailing situation could unravel the ceasefire if not quickly addressed.  He said South Sudan currently faces a twin threat posed by COVID-19 and escalating conflict in the regions which could unravel the ceasefire.

The UNMISS Chief said the additional pressure of responding to COVID-19 on the already weak health system will disrupt vaccinations, maternal health services and treatment for curable diseases like malaria, diarrhoea and pneumonia, resulting in a devastating increase in preventable deaths.