H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized the urgent need for peace in South Sudan during the IGAD assembly, calling for immediate cessation of hostilities and the unification of security forces. He highlighted the importance of dialogue between leadership and the revitalization of the 2018 Peace Agreement. His call to action urged IGAD and international stakeholders to collaborate in supporting South Sudan towards stability and reconciliation.
H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia addressed the 43rd Extraordinary Virtual Assembly of IGAD Heads of State, highlighting the critical situation in South Sudan. He expressed gratitude to IGAD for facilitating the meeting during this pivotal time and affirmed Somalia’s commitment to supporting peace in South Sudan. The ongoing challenges in the region necessitate a united front among all stakeholders to maintain stability and foster reconciliation.
The President acknowledged the significant progress made since the 2018 Revitalized Agreement, which he described as the primary path to peace. However, he emphasized the need for all parties to recommit to the agreement, noting that recent upheavals threaten its implementation. The assembly was convened not only to express concern but also to promote constructive dialogue aimed at assisting the South Sudanese populace in their peace aspirations.
He highlighted the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, stressing that ongoing violence endangers both South Sudan and the broader region. President Mohamud urged all factions to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than conflict, recalling successful mediation efforts in the past that have led to peace.
The unification of South Sudanese security forces is critical for restoring stability. Delays in this area have exacerbated insecurity and made conflict more probable. To this end, he called for expedited processes to establish Unified National Forces to restore confidence in national institutions. Somalia supports IGAD’s efforts to assist South Sudan in this endeavor and underlined that establishing a stable security framework is necessary for lasting peace.
President Mohamud also addressed the concerning communication breakdown between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, highlighting the importance of direct engagement for promoting national unity. He advocated for rebuilding trust and fostering collaboration between South Sudan’s leadership, emphasizing that political disagreements must be settled through consensus and compromise.
Moreover, he urged the Government of South Sudan to revitalize the 2018 Peace Agreement, stressing that while progress has occurred, remaining implementation gaps must be addressed. He called on leaders to prioritize political unity and reconciliation over factional disputes, thereby ensuring the governance and development of South Sudan.
In conclusion, President Mohamud reminded all stakeholders in IGAD and the international community of their responsibility to push for peace and reconciliation in South Sudan. He called for cooperation and commitment to ensuring that the aspirations for peace of the South Sudanese people are realized, emphasizing that the choice between division and unity rests with the country’s leaders and all involved parties.
In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s address underscores the critical need for renewed commitments to peace in South Sudan. He articulated the urgency of dialogue, unity, and the full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement. The fate of South Sudan hinges on its leaders’ ability to work collectively, prioritize national interests, and engage in constructive governance. This moment offers a pivotal opportunity for all stakeholders to foster lasting peace and development in the nation.
Original Source: igad.int
