The head of UNMISS, the UN Mission in South Sudan, said peaceful disarmament is critical to end recycled violence in Jonglei State that killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Hilde Johnson said the widespread possession and use of illegal weapons by the communities and the proliferation of small arms constitutes a significant threat to peace and security in South Sudan.She added that UNMISS will support the peaceful civilian disarmament process which involves communities voluntarily handing in their illegal weapons following sensitization from local community leaders and government officials.
Ms Johnson urged community leaders, Government officials and security forces to ensure that the disarmament process is undertaken in an orderly and safe manner, with respect for basic human rights.
She called on Government authorities and communities in Jonglei State to show commitment to peace and work with the Peace Committee for Jonglei to bring an end to the violence and embark on a reconciliation process.