JUBA, March 31 (Xinhua) -- Ongoing heavy clashes between the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) and opposition forces in parts of the country are putting immense pressure on a fragile ceasefire that has been in place since fighting erupted in March 2025, peace monitors warned on Tuesday.
Teshome Anagawe Ayana, chairperson of the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), said the permanent ceasefire signed by the warring parties in December 2017 remains under significant threat, with its implementation uneven and challenged by localized violations and structural weaknesses.
"In view of the current situation, CTSAMVM recommends that signatory parties ensure full compliance with the ceasefire, take command responsibility, protect civilians and respect human rights, and strengthen joint mechanisms and their oversight roles," Ayana said during a meeting of ceasefire monitors in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
He called on the parties to ensure freedom of movement and humanitarian access, restore essential services, and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons.
The statement follows deadly fighting between the SSPDF and the Sudan People's Liberation Army-In-Opposition, which has displaced about 280,000 people since March 6 in Akobo, Jonglei State.
Ayana noted that the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian assistance remain inconsistent, with notable gaps in conflict-affected areas.
He stressed that while there are indications of stability and recovery in certain regions, the overall situation remains fragile and requires a sustained commitment by all parties to fully implement the provisions of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement.
"The continued use of heavy weapons, as evidenced by the reported aerial bombardments, suggests non-compliance with provisions relating to the cessation of hostilities and the reduction of military capabilities," Ayana said.
He emphasized that the lack of fully integrated and deployed unified forces across the country reflects incomplete implementation of the agreed security arrangements, adding that the existence of separate operational zones controlled by different parties further highlights the absence of a unified command structure.
"These gaps indicate that the transitional security arrangements have not yet achieved their intended objective of establishing a cohesive and nationally representative security apparatus. Consequently, the effectiveness of security provision and civilian protection remains constrained, and mistrust between the parties continues," Ayana said. ■