The UN has condemned the extension of South Sudan’s transition period and postponed elections to December 2026, highlighting frustrations over political stagnation. UN Special Representative Nicholas Haysom emphasized the urgent need for leadership compromise and commitment to the Revitalised Peace Agreement, amidst escalating violence and humanitarian crises within the country.
The recent decision to extend the transition period in South Sudan and delay its first general elections is regrettable, according to UN Special Representative Nicholas Haysom. Speaking to the Security Council, he highlighted the frustrations of the South Sudanese people stemming from the political stagnation and inaction of their leaders in implementing the peace agreement established after years of conflict. The initial plan for elections next month has now been pushed to December 2026, with the transition period extended to February 2027. Haysom underscored that this situation cannot be viewed as business as usual, urging South Sudan’s leaders to find common ground and make substantial efforts toward fulfilling the benchmarks outlined in the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Despite holding dialogues with various stakeholders, the implementation of the accord has seen setbacks due to competing political interests. Furthermore, a Kenya-led initiative to include non-signatory opposition groups in the peace deal appears stalled despite hopes of reconvening. With critical time passing, Haysom warned that the urgency for action is pressing. “The clock on South Sudan’s fourth extension has started ticking,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for the international community, political elites, and parties to the peace agreement to capitalize on this opportunity. The UN has identified six immediate goals including deploying Necessary Unified Forces and facilitating voter registration preparations. Haysom has recently engaged directly with President Salva Kiir to advocate for progress toward these objectives. As the rainy season concludes, escalating violence and humanitarian needs continue to challenge recovery efforts in South Sudan. Fresh conflicts have led to civilian casualties across various states, compounded by an ongoing cholera outbreak and significant influx of refugees from Sudan. Despite aid endeavors reaching millions, persistent funding issues threaten relief efforts as the humanitarian crisis deepens, further complicating South Sudan’s path to peace and stability.
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 but descended into civil war two years later following a conflict between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar. The fighting resulted in the loss of countless lives and widespread displacement. A peace agreement formulated in 2018, known as the Revitalised Agreement, aimed to restore stability but has seen slow implementation. The recent decision to postpone the elections, which were originally scheduled for next month, reflects ongoing political paralysis and dissatisfaction among the populace regarding their leadership’s commitment to the peace process.
In summary, the postponement of elections in South Sudan represents a significant setback for the nation’s political landscape and the aspirations of its people. The need for decisive action from South Sudan’s leaders, alongside support from the international community, is critical for the actualization of the peace agreement and the establishment of a democratic framework. Failure to address these urgent issues risks prolonging instability and frustration among the South Sudanese citizens who yearn for a peaceful transition.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
