UN chief calls for a stronger UN mission, as the situation worsens in South Sudan

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is urging the Security Council to boost the capacity of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) as the crisis continues in that country.

 

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Mr. Ban said tens of thousands of people have been displaced, including 45,000 seeking protection at the bases of UNMISS.

 

The Secretary-General said the situation in the newest nation is of mounting urgency and he is especially worried by reports of ethnically targeted killings.

 

He said he would spend most of the day calling regional leaders and others to bolster support for UNMISS as well as political backing for efforts to defuse the crisis.

 

"Also today, I will be sending a letter to the Security Council containing my recommendations for boosting the protection capacity of UNMISS with additional troops, police and logistical assets. We are already approaching countries to help meet the new requirements. We are also looking at other peacekeeping missions, while taking care not to reduce their capacity to respond to threats where they operate."

 

Secretary-General Ban said UNMISS is protecting civilians at its bases, supporting humanitarian deliveries and investigating reports of abuses.

 

He warned that those responsible for human rights violations and crimes against humanity at the senior level will be held personally accountable and face the consequences.

 

In a direct message to the people of South Sudan, Mr. Ban said the United Nations stood with them on their road to independence and will stay with them now.

 

Donn Bobb, United Nations.