Thousands of South Sudanese have fled violence in Tambura, seeking refuge as UNMISS reports a return to calm in Western Equatoria. Concurrently, political groups are implementing an action plan to prepare for the delayed 2026 elections, highlighting the critical need for an inclusive political environment in the country.
Recent reports indicate that thousands of South Sudanese have been displaced from their homes in the Western Equatoria State due to persistent violence in Tambura and its surrounding areas. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) confirmed that stability has returned to the region following a period of unrest. Many of those who fled, including individuals such as Monica Zeferina, have sought refuge near temporary UNMISS bases. Zeferina expressed distress, stating, “We don’t know who these armed men are, killing our people… We cannot leave because we have no transport to take our children to safety. It’s a very difficult situation for us.” Colonel Shams Sittique, a Senior Military Observer with UNMISS, has assured continued monitoring of the area to mitigate further violence.
Meanwhile, in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, political parties and civil society organizations have initiated an “action plan” to facilitate free and fair elections set for two years from now. UNMISS organized a Political Parties’ Forum that brought together representatives from eight political parties and seven civil society groups, culminating in the signing of a plan designed to create an inclusive civic and political environment leading into the 2026 elections. UNMISS Deputy Special Representative Guang Cong emphasized the necessity of an open political space, asserting, “Now more than ever, an open civic and political space is crucial.” This is vital for ensuring that political actors can engage in fair campaigning without interference.
Noteworthy is the South Sudanese government’s recent postponement of elections, originally scheduled for December 2024, due to the necessity of completing processes such as a national census and drafting a permanent constitution. The rescheduled election date is now confirmed for December 22, 2026, marking the second delay since South Sudan’s independence, thus extending the transitional period that commenced in February 2020.
The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has led to significant humanitarian crises, with displacement affecting countless individuals. The Western Equatoria State has been particularly impacted, with UNMISS playing a critical role in peacekeeping and monitoring violations. Efforts to establish a more stable political landscape have also been undertaken, highlighting the need for free and fair elections as part of the country’s long-term peacebuilding initiatives, especially in light of prior delays and the need for widespread civic participation.
In summary, the violence in Tambura has led to a humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands of South Sudanese who seek safety. While stability appears to be returning under UNMISS oversight, initiatives for political reform are underway. The action plan established for future elections reflects a commitment to creating an inclusive political context. However, the repeated postponement of elections extends the transitional period, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by South Sudan in its pursuit of peace and governance.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
