RJMEC condemns aerial bombardment in Old Fangak
By Aguok Chok
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has strongly condemned the recent attack in Old Fangak, Jonglei State, which resulted in the deaths of at least seven civilians.
The aerial assault, which took place early Saturday, May 3, 2025, targeted a busy market and a medical facility run by Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
According to MSF, the attack led to multiple fatalities and left scores of people wounded. The facility, which provides essential healthcare to a vulnerable community, also suffered significant damage, including the destruction of vital infrastructure and medical supplies.
In a statement issued yesterday, RJMEC expressed deep concern over the incident, saying this is unacceptable and calling for accountability.
RJMEC stated that the attack marked yet another serious setback in the fragile peace process.
The statement emphasized that such actions constitute a grave violation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
“The R-ARCSS explicitly prohibits any attacks on unarmed civilians and humanitarian agencies,” the Commission reminded all parties.
“Such violent actions not only breach the terms of the Agreement but also undermine ongoing efforts to build lasting peace and stability through constructive and inclusive political dialogue.”
RJMEC urged the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to immediately and thoroughly investigate the
incident.
Commission further called on relevant national authorities to ensure that CTSAMVM is given full support, safe access, and unhindered entry to the affected area so they can carry out their mandate without delay.
RJMEC also appealed to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to assist with logistical support. “We appeal to UNMISS to provide logistical support to CTSAMVM to effectively and efficiently complete the investigation,” the Commission said.
The attack has raised fears of renewed instability in Jonglei State, an area that has experienced repeated cycles of violence. Humanitarian organizations have voiced concern over the increasing threats to aid workers and the facilities they operate
MSF, in particular, said the bombed hospital has been serving over 40,000 people, describing it as a lifeline in Old Fangak, providing life-saving medical care in a region with limited health infrastructure.
The peace monitors urged all signatories to the peace agreement to recommit to its implementation and to respect the provisions designed to protect civilians and humanitarian operations.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call,” RJMEC warned, stressing that lasting peace in South Sudan hinges on strict adherence to the terms of the peace agreement and the safeguarding of human lives.
However, RJMEC promised to continue to monitor the situation and work closely with national and international partners to support efforts toward peace, stability, and justice in the region.
