Peace negotiations in South Sudan have recommenced in Kenya after a four-month delay and the dismissal of a government delegation. The talks involve the South Sudanese government and previously excluded opposition groups, aimed at addressing issues from the prior 2018 peace agreement. Challenges include financial constraints and human rights violations, while urgent appeals are made for commitment towards resolutions to avert further chaos in the nation.
The peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in South Sudan have resumed in Kenya after a four-month hiatus, coupled with the dismissal of a previous government delegation. The discussions involve the South Sudanese government and various opposition groups that were excluded from a prior peace agreement in 2018, which concluded a brutal civil war resulting in significant loss of life. The negotiations, termed “Tumaini” signifying hope, initially commenced in May with both sides formalizing a declaration of commitment to peace.
Following the dismissal of the earlier government representatives by President Salva Kiir, a new delegation was appointed but faced challenges in traveling to Nairobi for subsequent meetings. Kiir clarified that these negotiations should not be viewed as a replacement for the 2018 agreement but as a means of addressing the grievances of the holdout factions. Despite the lingering effects of war, which delayed the implementation of the peace deal, South Sudanian authorities postponed the upcoming elections, originally set for December 2024, due to financial constraints and difficulties related to voter registration.
The oil industry, which remains crucial to South Sudan’s economy, has been hampered by a pipeline issue in neighboring Sudan, further complicating the country’s financial landscape. Amid these negotiations, both factions have opposed recent legal changes that enable arrests without warrants, arguing that such moves violate human rights.
Chief mediator Lazarus Sumbeiyo urged all entities involved to finalize outstanding matters. In a statement, Pagan Amum of the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance emphasized the urgency of adhering to previous agreements, stating that this moment could be the decisive opportunity for the country to avert further turmoil. Kuol Manyang Juuk, representing the government, encouraged both parties to recognize their shared responsibilities in building upon prior successes in negotiations.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has faced rampant instability and violent conflict, notably a civil war that lasted five years and resulted in the death of over 400,000 individuals. The peace agreement signed in 2018 aimed to stabilize the nation but has seen slow and partial implementation. The continued dialogue among South Sudan’s government and opposition factions is crucial for addressing unresolved issues, initiating necessary reforms, and establishing a roadmap for future elections, which are pivotal for national recovery.
The resumption of peace talks in South Sudan represents a critical effort to overcome longstanding challenges and foster a political resolution. With heightened urgency due to economic and humanitarian crises, the commitment from both government and opposition leaders is vital to ensure that progress is made towards lasting peace and stability. The ongoing negotiations underscore the pivotal role that collaboration and adherence to previous agreements play in shaping the future of South Sudan.
Original Source: apnews.com
