The joint statement from AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS emphasizes the critical nature of 2025 for South Sudan’s peace process, applauding progress but also urging immediate attention to outstanding transitional tasks. They recognized President Kiir’s diplomatic engagements aimed at including non-signatory groups and highlighted the need for civic education, clear planning for upcoming elections, and maintaining international support.
The African Union Mission in South Sudan (AUMISS), along with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), has recognized the advancements made in 2024 by the South Sudanese government and stakeholders toward implementing the 2018 revitalized peace agreement. In a joint communique, they underscored the critical nature of 2025 as a year to finalize outstanding tasks necessary for full agreement execution.
The partners expressed appreciation for the peace achieved through consistent ceasefire efforts and urged the prompt deployment of the remaining Necessary Unified Forces, as well as the completion of broader transitional security measures. They also commended the initiation of planning and foundational work carried out by technical teams responsible for electoral and constitutional processes. However, the group voiced concerns about delays affecting key transitional initiatives and highlighted the need for expediency, especially following the recent extension of the transitional period.
Additionally, the trilateral noted President Salva Kiir’s proactive approach in seeking assistance from Kenya’s President William Ruto for stalled negotiations with non-signatory groups, which led to the Tumaini Initiative. They stressed the importance of subsequent negotiations achieving a consensus to incorporate these groups into the peace process, voicing cautious optimism about the President’s commitment to avoid a return to conflict.
The three entities called for expanded civic education and engagement with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and the media, regarding challenges in implementing the peace process. They emphasized the need for clear planning ahead of the December 2026 elections, cautioning that South Sudan must fully commit to completing its transitional tasks to maintain the trust and support of the international community amidst global crises.
In conclusion, the partners affirmed their continued support for the South Sudanese people as they strive for meaningful progress in the peace process during 2025, aiming for credible elections by the end of the following year.
The context of this article focuses on the efforts made by the African Union, IGAD, and UNMISS in supporting the peace process in South Sudan, particularly after the revitalization of the peace agreement in 2018. The article highlights the importance of transitions in governance and security, electoral preparations, and the involvement of civil society in fostering peace within the nation. Given the historical context of conflict and instability in South Sudan, the recent acknowledgment of progress and calls for urgent action reflect ongoing international dedication to stabilize the region.
In summary, the joint communique from AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS underscores the significance of 2025 as a pivotal year in the South Sudan peace process. The entities call for urgency in completing remaining tasks of the peace agreement and emphasize the importance of political inclusivity and civic engagement. They remain hopeful about President Kiir’s pledges for peace and reiterate their commitment to supporting South Sudan in achieving credible elections by 2026.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
