The Yambio Council of Ministers has declared the resumption of free movement for UNMISS in Gbudue State, where its patrols have recently been restricted.

A press statement issued by the Minister of Information, Culture and Youth Joseph Natale Sabun on the local church radio “Radio Anisa Fm”, said the Gbudue State Government has unanimously permitted UNMISS to conduct patrols in the region without fear of anybody stopping them.

“To cooperate fully with UNMISS, Gbudue State Government has authorized UNMISS to freely organize their programs to visit any area to monitor security situation in the State without any problem”, said Joseph Sabuni.

Sabuni urged citizens in the state not to panic when UNMISS patrols visit counties and villages, saying that they are not enemies but friendly.

The statement comes after the Mission on several occasions over the past three months has been denied access to most areas in Gbudue State. During this period, the state government accused UNMISS of failing to protect citizens during the recent conflict in different areas in Western Equatoria.

Mr. Sabun mentioned that, followinging an appeal to the Government of South Sudan by a high-level delegation of the United Nations Security Council during its recent visit to the country, Gbudue State government decided to permit UNMISS to perform its duties freely, without any restrictions.

The Minister also stated that the security situation is back to normal in most of the areas in the state, enabling partners to go there to deliver service to the citizens who were displaced by the conflict.

While on air, Joseph Natale Sabun encouraged government officials and the general public to attend UNMISS-organized events on the International Day of Peace (21 September). Memorable speeches, sports activities and live music will mark the day at the Yambio Freedom Square.