The COOP Calls on the UN to Declare a Humanitarian Catastrophe in South Sudan
In a bold move to draw international attention to the dire situation unfolding in South Sudan, the Coalition of Opposition Parties (COOP) leadership issued a press statement urging the United Nations to declare a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan officially. The statement, signed by the coalition chairman, Dr. Gai Chol Paul, emphasized the urgent need for immediate intervention to address the escalating humanitarian crisis that has left millions of South Sudanese civilians in a state of extreme vulnerability. Dr. Paul underscored the critical importance of swift and decisive action by the international community to prevent further suffering and loss of life in a country already grappling with widespread conflict and instability.
“In the midst of the dire situation unfolding in South Sudan, we implore the UN to recognize and declare the humanitarian catastrophe that has befallen the nation. The pervasive hunger gripping the country has reached alarming levels, leaving both urban and rural populations on the brink of famine.”
The COOP leaders associated the call for a declaration of a humanitarian catastrophe with the lack of political will by the government of South Sudan to provide services, improve the management of resources, restore political stability, and establish the rule of law in South Sudan. The COOP asserted that the government of South Sudan’s capacity to deliver essential services and protection to its people effectively has been severely compromised, leading to widespread suffering and deprivation among the population. The failure to prioritize the well-being of citizens, coupled with systemic inefficiencies and corruption, has exacerbated the already precarious living conditions in the country.
“The lack of political will to provide services, poor management of resources, political instability, and absence of rule of law have severely hindered the government’s capacity to provide essential services and protection to its people, leaving millions at risk of starvation and insecurity.”
The COOP leaders call on the international community to step up critical support and resources to address the urgent needs of the South Sudanese population who are at risk of famine. The COOP leaders added that failure to act decisively at this critical juncture could have devastating consequences for the millions of vulnerable individuals and communities already on the brink of starvation.
“The pervasive impact of food insecurity has engulfed both urban and rural populations, leaving no corner of the country untouched. Families are struggling to access basic necessities, children are going hungry, and vulnerable communities are on the brink of starvation.”
The COOP leaders believe that declaring a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan is a critical step towards addressing the urgent food crisis that has left millions of people on the brink of starvation. By officially recognizing the severity of the situation, the international community can mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to provide much-needed food aid and support to the vulnerable populations in South Sudan. This declaration will help alleviate immediate suffering and pave the way for sustainable solutions to ensure food security and prevent future humanitarian crises in the country. Additionally, declaring a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan is essential for restoring the rule of law and promoting sustainable peace.
“Declaring a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan is crucial for addressing the immediate food crisis, restoring the rule of law, and promoting sustainable peace. The ongoing inter-communal conflict and the inability of the government of South Sudan to provide services have eroded the social fabric of South Sudan, leading to widespread violence and severe hunger. By recognizing the gravity of the situation through a formal declaration, the UN can catalyze coordinated efforts to provide humanitarian assistance, protect civilians, and support efforts to build a more stable and secure future for the people of South Sudan.”
The COOP is comprises of non-violent parties that are not part of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU), and its current membership includes the People’s United Forum (PUF), People’s Progressive Party (PPP), African People Congress (APC), Common People’s Alliance (CPA), Democratic Party(DP), Action for Democratic Change (ADC), Economic Freedom Fighters of South Sudan (EFFOSS), National Unity Alliance (NUA), Federal Democratic Change (FDC), and National Unionist Party (NUP).
