Accusations that the UN Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS, refused protection to civilians fleeing fighting in the country have been refuted by the mission.    

On Saturday thousands of people sought refuge at the UN compound in Yambio, the capital city of Western Equatoria state, following clashes between government army units and local ethnic groups.

UNMISS spokesperson Ariane Quentier said the UN is protecting almost 170,000 people in the war-torn country and is not to blame for not opening the gates in Yambio.

She’s been speaking with Lucy Jubara about how the UN has responded to the situation so far.

Duration: 3’10”