The IGAD virtual summit emphasized its commitment to addressing the South Sudan crisis by promoting dialogue and reducing tensions. AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed concern over recent escalations of violence, condemned the attacks, and urged accountability and national dialogue. Following years of conflict, a peace agreement was signed in 2018, with elections scheduled for December 2023.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) conducted a virtual summit to address the ongoing crisis in South Sudan. As the guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement (R-ARCSS), IGAD reaffirmed its dedication to fostering dialogue, reducing tensions, and ensuring a peaceful future for the South Sudanese populace.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, voiced significant concern regarding the heightened tensions and clashes occurring in Nasir County, Upper Nile state. His press release on March 8 highlighted incidents such as a deadly attack on a United Nations helicopter and outbreaks of violence in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el-Ghazal, which pose serious threats to the peace process.
Mahamat condemned the violent developments and urged all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint. He insisted that authorities must hold the perpetrators accountable and take urgent measures to safeguard citizens. Furthermore, he called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, adherence to ceasefire agreements, and for all parties to engage in national dialogue urgently.
Following years of civil strife, South Sudan’s warring political leaders signed a peace agreement in 2018. In August 2022, they agreed to prolong the transitional phase, aiming for a conclusion by February 2025, with elections slated for December of this year, despite multiple delays.
The IGAD virtual summit underscored the importance of dialogue and restraint in addressing the crisis in South Sudan. With rising tensions and violence threatening the peace process, the need for accountability and immediate cessation of hostilities is critical. The commitment of leaders to the peace agreement remains vital for the future stability and democratic progress in the nation.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
