The IGAD virtual summit addressed the South Sudan crisis, reiterating its commitment to promoting dialogue and peace. African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed deep concerns over escalating violence, calling for restraint and accountability among warring parties. A peace agreement was signed in 2018, with elections scheduled for December, yet violence threatens the process.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) recently convened a virtual summit focusing on the ongoing crisis in South Sudan. In a formal statement, IGAD reaffirmed its role as the guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), emphasizing its unwavering commitment to fostering dialogue, reducing tensions, and securing a peaceful future for the nation’s people.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed significant concern regarding the escalating tensions and clashes in Nasir County, located in the Upper Nile state of South Sudan. He highlighted recent events that included a violent attack on a United Nations helicopter, as well as unrest in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el-Ghazal, all of which pose a severe threat to the ongoing peace process.
Mahamat condemned the recent violence and urged all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint. He called upon the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the violent acts are held accountable and to take immediate action to safeguard the wellbeing of citizens. Mahamat also requested an urgent cessation of hostilities, adherence to established ceasefire agreements, and the necessity for all parties to engage in a national dialogue as soon as possible.
After enduring years of civil war in South Sudan, the conflicting political leaders reached a peace agreement in 2018. In August 2022, they agreed to extend the transitional period, which is anticipated to conclude in February 2025. Elections, initially scheduled for December of this year, have faced multiple delays, underscoring the region’s fragile situation.
In conclusion, the IGAD virtual summit highlighted urgent issues facing South Sudan, including escalating violence and the need for dialogue among conflicting parties. Moussa Faki Mahamat’s appeals for restraint and accountability underscore the critical state of affairs as the nation aims for a peaceful resolution. Ultimately, the success of the revitalized peace agreement hinges on the commitment to uphold ceasefires and prioritize national dialogue.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
