UNICEF condemns killing of children in Jonglei
The United Nations Children’s Fund Agency (UNICEF) has condemned the recent subnational conflict in Jonglei State that claimed several lives, including three children. UNICEF termed the clashes a violation of the fundamental rights of children.
The organisation expressed deep concern about the incident, calling on the perpetrators to respect children and their families as provided by the law.
“UNICEF is deeply concerned about news that three children who were reportedly killed during an attempted cattle raid on Ghoh cattle camp, in Pagil Payam on 18 of February which left a total of 12 dead and 10 wounded,’’ said Hamida Lasseko, UNICEF Representative in South Sudan.
“UNICEF condemns such indiscriminate attacks against children and civilians in South Sudan; children are the most impacted by the continued violence and humanitarian disasters,” Lasseko added.
According to Chapter II, Section 12 of the South Sudan Child Act (2008), every child has an inherent right to life, and the family and government shall promote and care for the survival and development of the child.
Greater Jonglei and Pibor Administration Area have been witnessing cases of child abduction, which amounts to child rights violations, but the leaders have struggled to address the issue.
Besides, other rights such as the right to education, right to no separation from parents or guardians; right to no early marriage, and right to protection from child labour, among others, have been violated in the country.
There have also been reports of child soldiers and children associated with armed groups in the country, with UNICEF and partners agitating for the release and reintegration of several children over the past years.
According to the South Sudan Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) Commission last year, many were still to be traced, released, and reunited with their families.
“UNICEF offers its condolences to the families of the victims. “We call upon all groups and individuals to respect [and ensure that] children and their families are kept out of harm’s way,” the UNICEF boss further said.
To prevent further child rights abuses, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) trained at least 120 members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) on protecting child rights in Warrap State.
