NDP calls on Canadian Government to support peace in South Sudan

The NDP is deeply concerned by continued violence between government forces and rebel groups in South Sudan and is calling on the Government of Canada to support peace in South Sudan.

“With deaths exceeding 1,000 and more than 250,000 people forced from their homes, it is urgent that violence on all sides end immediately and that displaced people receive the help they need,” said NDP foreign affairs critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa-Centre). “The ongoing diplomatic efforts are essential to finding a lasting political solution to the conflict.”

The violence has escalated since beginning last month in the wake of a political dispute. A team from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development is moderating negotiations taking place in Ethiopia, which have stalled over the release of political detainees.

“The Canadian government should ensure that Canadian citizens in South Sudan have access to all necessary consular assistance, as well as support the ongoing ceasefire negotiations,” said NDP international development critic Hélène Laverdière (Laurier—Sainte-Marie). “Unfortunately, the government’s recent decision to dismantle its Sudan Task Force and the proposed cuts to aid for Sudan reduce Canada’s influence in the region.”