Closure of UNMIS

UNMIS wound up its operations on 9 July 2011 with the completion of the interim period agreed on by the Government of Sudan and Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), signed on 9 January 2005.

The mission ended its six years of mandated operations the same day South Sudan declared independence, following a CPA-provided referendum on 9 January 2011 that voted overwhelmingly in favour of secession.

In support of the new nation, the Security Council established a successor mission to UNMIS – the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) – on 9 July for an initial period of one year, with the intention to renew for further periods as required.

UNMIS officials visit Greater Upper Nile

13 Mar 2011

UNMIS officials visit Greater Upper Nile

10 March 2011- In the wake of growing insecurity in the Greater Upper Nile area, UNMIS officials visited affected states to assess the humanitarian situation and immediate needs of residents.

"We came here to review the situation in Unity, Upper Nile as well as Jonglei (states) to see what we can do to support any kind of resolution that might be required," said UNMIS Southern Sudan Regional Coordinator David Gressly.

UNMIS Chief of Public Information Hua Jiang and state coordinators from Jonglei, (Rose Sakala), Upper Nile (Hendrik Bruyn) and Unity (Kwame Dwamena Aboagye) states accompanied Mr. Gressly on his visit.

They met with Upper Nile State Governor Lt. Gen. Simon Kun Pouch to discuss various issues, including the security situation, border demarcation and the future of UNMIS.

In a press statement, UNMIS urged the Government of Southern Sudan to address security threats within the confines of international humanitarian law. The mission called on all parties to refrain from any actions and activities that could harm civilians or endanger their lives and property.

Mr. Gressly said the mission looked forward to working with the government in helping to resolve the security situation and dealing with humanitarian consequences that could arise.

In recent weeks, the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) have clashed with rebel forces, leaving hundreds dead and wounded. Between 7 and 8 March, armed forces loyal to a militia leader, Oliny, clashed with SPLA forces in Upper Nile, leaving over 60 people dead. In February, SPLA forces in Jonglei State clashed with elements aligned to rebel leader George Athor, leaving an estimated 200 people dead.