The South Sudan high-level mediation talks, involving hold-out groups, are set to culminate in a peace agreement next month. Led by Lt-Gen Lazarus Sumbeiywo, negotiations have nearly concluded with nine protocols addressing critical issues. The key remaining protocol pertains to Responsibility Sharing. The talks face internal government disputes, but there is optimism among participants for a reconciliatory path forward despite concerns about potential ramifications for the 2018 peace agreement. The transitional government has extended its mandate following postponed elections, raising international scrutiny on governance in South Sudan.
The South Sudan high-level mediation talks, involving various hold-out groups, are poised to conclude with a formal agreement next month. Following extensive negotiations culminating in nine key protocols, the chief mediator, Lt-Gen (Rtd) Lazarus Sumbeiywo, has indicated that all but one protocol, concerning Responsibility Sharing, has been finalized. The remaining discussions are expected to be completed shortly. The mediation process, known as the Tumaini Initiative, is intended to integrate groups initially opposed to the 2018 peace agreement that established the transitional government led by President Salva Kiir. Despite challenges and concerns from some opposition factions regarding potential threats to the 2018 agreement, there remains a strong belief among participants that the protocols offer a pathway to lasting peace for South Sudan. The transitional government has recently delayed elections and extended its mandate, prompting criticism and concerns from the international community regarding democratic processes in the country. Discussions are ongoing regarding critical topics including economic recovery, security sector reforms, and efforts to address communal violence as the parties involved await a definitive return to negotiations from the government. The path forward necessitates overcoming internal disagreements among government factions resistant to incorporating the hold-out groups into the coalition. With momentum building, the hope is that the Tumaini Initiative can facilitate reconciliation and stability in South Sudan, but vigilance is needed to ensure it does not stray from its broader peace objectives.
South Sudan has struggled with political divisions and conflict since its independence in 2011. The 2018 peace agreement aimed to create a transitional government to foster stability, but various factions, termed hold-out groups, remained opposed to this agreement. The Tumaini Initiative seeks to mediate and include these groups in the government, thereby extending the peace dialogue and addressing the causes of conflict. Previous talks had faced stagnation, leading to renewed focus in the face of internal government disputes and delays in negotiations. This context emphasizes the urgency and complexity surrounding the negotiations as the country seeks a path to a sustainable peace amid lingering tensions and unmet political benchmarks.
The impending signing of the peace agreement in South Sudan highlights an essential step towards consolidating the various political factions into a more unified governance structure. While significant protocols have been established, outstanding issues concerning key areas such as responsibility sharing remain critical to address. Continuous efforts from both the mediation team and the involved parties will be crucial as South Sudan navigates the challenges ahead in its quest for comprehensive peace and stability. The international community’s concern regarding democratic processes, especially with elections postponed, further underscores the necessity for genuine political engagement and reconciliation efforts.
Original Source: www.theeastafrican.co.ke
