The IGAD Heads of State have insisted on dialogue as essential for resolving tensions in South Sudan, urging immediate adherence to the ceasefire. They condemned recent violence, including the killings of key military personnel and called for accountability. The assembly reinforced the 2018 peace agreement, emphasized grassroots dialogues, and urged inclusion of marginalized groups.
The Heads of State and Government from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have emphasized that dialogue is essential to end the hostilities in South Sudan. In a statement following their 43rd Extraordinary Assembly, they expressed deep concern regarding the recent escalation of violence and breaches of the ceasefire agreements within the country.
The leaders affirmed the importance of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) of 2018 as the foundation of the peace process, urging all parties to de-escalate tensions and adhere to the Permanent Ceasefire. They condemned the killing of General Majur Duk, the Commander of the SSPDF forces in Nasir, along with several others, including a UN crew.
Additionally, the summit emphasized the swift implementation of Transitional Security Arrangements by allocating the necessary resources promptly. The assembly has directed the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanisms (CTSAMVM) to investigate the recent clashes in Nasir and the attack on a UN helicopter to ensure accountability.
Furthermore, IGAD leaders called for the Special Envoy for South Sudan to enhance communication with armed groups for full compliance with the ceasefire. They also supported grassroots peace dialogues and encouraged religious and traditional leaders to promote reconciliation and the inclusion of women, youth, and other marginalized groups.
The assembly was chaired by Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, the President of Djibouti. Notable attendees included President Hassan Mohamud of Somalia, representatives of the leaders from Kenya and Uganda, and various officials such as Moussa Faki, the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in South Sudan.
The IGAD Assembly has clearly delineated the need for dialogue as the only viable pathway to end the violence in South Sudan. Their insistence on adhering to the ceasefire and implementing security arrangements reflects a commitment to restoring peace. The call for engagement with armed groups and grassroots initiatives highlights a comprehensive approach towards reconciliation and inclusion of diverse societal groups.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
