Clashes in South Sudan leave 23 dead ahead of polls

Four weeks of fighting between government troops and opposition forces in northern South Sudan have left 23 people dead and forced thousands to flee. The violence in the Ruweng administrative area involves fighters from the SPLA-IO force entering from neighbouring Unity state.

Casualties And Flight

The clashes took place between October 4 and Thursday, leaving 17 people wounded alongside the 23 deaths. Authorities report that more than 100,000 people have fled the conflict zone, while police sources confirm thousands have left the area. Residents report that rebel armies were repelled after the government built up forces on the front lines.

Election Tensions

The bloodshed comes as South Sudan prepares for its first national elections on December 22. Recent weeks have seen hundreds die in clashes across the country between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those of detained former vice president Riek Machar. A South Sudan army spokesman declined to comment on the events, and Mr. Machar's forces did not respond to queries.

Context

South Sudan is the world's youngest country, having gained independence in 2011. President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar previously fought a civil war that lasted from 2013 to 2018. The upcoming December election has been postponed several times amid warnings from international bodies that current tensions could trigger renewed conflict.