Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy
Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council
meeting on South Sudan.
Let me start by expressing concern regarding the attacks on
civilians, including South Sudanese, in Wad Madani in Sudan
between 11 and 15 January and the subsequent unrest in South
Sudan on 16-17 January.
Second, as we've heard today, the humanitarian situation in South
Sudan is desperate.
Over one million displaced people have now arrived from Sudan
into South Sudan since the outbreak of the conflict.
The United Kingdom recognises the significant impact of the Sudan
crisis on the region and welcomes South Sudan's commitment to
welcoming and supporting those fleeing the conflict.
We commend UNMISS's facilitation of humanitarian efforts, noting
that significant challenges lie ahead in 2025.
The UK will continue to support South Sudan and we have increased
our humanitarian support to Sudan's neighbours.
Third, President, as we have heard today, the political situation
in South Sudan remains precarious.
The United Kingdom is concerned by continued restrictions to
political and civic space in the country and by the lack of
progress towards unification of the security forces.
Progress on this is critical to create the conditions for
sustainable peace and elections.
The Transitional Government of South Sudan has not yet produced
their promised work plan to deliver elections in 2026.
Without renewed efforts, progress towards peaceful, inclusive and
credible elections risks falling further behind schedule.
We welcome UNMISS's work to build capacity and capability for
South Sudan's electoral institutions.
And we repeat our call on the Transitional Government to match
these efforts to provide adequate funding for elections and to
pay the salaries of public servants including the security
forces.
In conclusion, President, we call on the Transitional Government
of South Sudan to publish a credible elections preparations work
plan and then take the necessary steps towards holding peaceful,
inclusive and credible elections in line with the new 2026
timeline.
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