New York

16 December 2013

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the deterioration of the security situation in Juba (South Sudan)

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about reports of fighting between members of the SPLA in Juba and about the risk of targeted violence against certain communities. He urges all parties in the fighting to cease hostilities immediately.  He calls on the leaders of the SPLA to impose discipline on their forces and to exercise maximum restraint in the use of force. It is essential that the Government guarantees the security of all civilians regardless of their communities of origin.