The IGAD Heads of State emphasized the necessity of dialogue to resolve ongoing tensions in South Sudan. They condemned recent violence, reaffirmed ceasefire commitments, and directed investigations into specific incidents. The assembly also encouraged grassroots peace initiatives and collaboration with civil society for inclusion and empowerment of marginalized groups.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Heads of State and Government have emphasized that the ongoing hostilities in South Sudan can only be resolved through dialogue. Following their 43rd Extraordinary Assembly, the leaders expressed alarm over the rising violence and the breach of ceasefire agreements in the nation.
In their joint statement, the IGAD leaders reaffirmed the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) of 2018 as essential to the peace process. They condemned the recent killing of General Majur Duk, a commander of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, and others, including a UN crew member during an evacuation.
The summit leaders urgently called for de-escalation of tensions and compliance with the Permanent Ceasefire. They also demanded the immediate release of detained officials and stressed the need to prioritize the implementation of Transitional Security Arrangements with prompt resource allocation.
To ensure accountability for any violations, the assembly directed the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanisms (CTSAMVM) to investigate the clashes in Nasir and attacks on UN personnel. Additionally, they tasked the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan to engage with armed groups to ensure adherence to the ceasefire.
The leaders supported grassroots peace dialogues and urged religious, traditional leaders, and civil society to promote reconciliation while advocating for the empowerment of women, youth, and underrepresented groups. The summit was chaired by Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, and attended by various heads of state and representatives from neighboring countries, as well as key officials and observers from various organizations.
In conclusion, the IGAD assembly has made clear that dialogue is fundamental to resolving the tensions in South Sudan. The leaders condemned violence, reaffirmed commitments to ceasefire agreements, and emphasized the need for thorough investigations and inclusive discussions. Their unified approach underscores the importance of reconciliation, empowerment of marginalized groups, and the securing of peace through collaborative efforts.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
