The United Nations Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS, in a statement on Wednesday, condemned the attack on Mayom County of Unity State last week. 

On Friday, 22 July, attacks by the rebel South Sudan People’s Movement/Army led by General Stephen Buay Rolnyang in Mayom resulted in the death of several people including the area county commissioner. The attack followed earlier clashes between the group and government forces in the area on 19 July.

Nicholas Haysom, the special representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan, called on the forces of Buay to immediately cease hostilities.

“Subnational violence has already had a devastating effect on communities. We appeal to all armed groups to put down their weapons and participate in peace efforts. This is the only way to break the cycles of violence and revenge killings, and pave the way for durable and sustainable peace,” Haysom said.

UNMISS continues to closely monitor the situation in Mayom County and is supporting the peace process.