(Bentiu) – The One Citizen Network for Democracy (OCND), a South Sudanese civil society organisation, has condemned recent aerial bombardments in Unity State that left at least ten civilians injured and caused the deaths of 35 cattle. The group has called for urgent humanitarian intervention and a recommitment to peace agreements.
According to a statement released by OCND, the attacks, believed to be linked to clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), supported by Uganda’s UPDF, and opposition forces from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), have forced many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
The organisation reported that aerial strikes hit several villages, including Pachienjiok, Pachak, and Pualmuok, in Unity State. As a result, large numbers of civilians have reportedly fled to areas such as Payinjiar headquarters, Tayar Island, Kol Payam, Paak Boma and Machar Boma. The displacement has left families vulnerable and in urgent need of assistance.
“The bombardment has caused fear and panic across the local population,” the OCND said in its statement. “People are abandoning their homes with little more than what they can carry, and they now lack basic needs such as shelter, food and clean water.”
The group urged the Unity State and Lakes State governments, alongside national authorities, to take immediate steps to support those affected. It called for the swift provision of humanitarian aid, including emergency shelter, food supplies, and access to clean water.
OCND also appealed to both the government and opposition forces to respect the terms of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). The agreement, which was designed to end years of conflict, remains under pressure due to renewed fighting in several parts of the country.
“Adherence to the peace agreement is critical to avoiding further displacement and building trust between communities,” OCND said. “Action must be taken now to protect lives and promote peace.”
No official figures have yet been released by Unity State authorities regarding the full number of displaced people. However, local leaders and residents continue to report ongoing fear and insecurity across affected villages.
