CTSAMM: We do not seek to blame one party over the other, but to report the situation as it is

The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism (CTSAMM) has released reports pinning both government and opposition forces for multiple violations of a December cessation of hostilities agreement.

The reports indicate that sixteen people have been killed - including three children, since the agreement came into effect less than a month ago. 

The information is contained in four separate investigation reports released on Tuesday by the independent monitoring body - covering attacks in Unity and the Equatoria area as well as updates on child soldiers and Sexual and Gender Based Violence. 

The monitors cite the opposition for spearheading an attack on the town of Koch, just hours after the cease-fire was implemented on December 24, while government forces are accused of looting civilian property and initiating clashes in and around the town of Mundri in the Equatoria region.

They also verify the presence of child soldiers in Western Barh el Ghazal, Jonglei and Central Equatoria – but acknowledges efforts by some partied to return the children to their families.

On sexual abuse, the monitors say more than 154 women from the Juba area sought medical attention as a result of suffering SGBV between February and December 2017, mainly at the hands of men described as ‘uniformed males.’

CTSAMM communications officer Ruth Feeney spoke to Sebit William about the reports and more in this interview.