The international community, including several embassies and the EU Delegation, has offered to mediate talks between South Sudan’s leaders to foster peace. A joint statement condemned violence in the Upper Nile State and stressed the necessity of direct dialogue between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, urging leaders to prioritize their citizens’ needs.
The international community has extended an offer to facilitate direct communication between the leaders of South Sudan in a bid to restore peace and stability in the nation. In a joint statement issued on Tuesday by the Embassies of Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside the European Union Delegation, there is a renewed commitment to assist in diplomatic talks between First Vice President Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir.
The statement emphasized the urgent need for South Sudan’s leaders to engage in direct dialogue, stating, “We reaffirm as a matter of urgency our call that South Sudan’s leaders… meet and engage in direct dialogue to restore and maintain peace. We are prepared to facilitate their discussion.”
Additionally, the joint statement condemned the ongoing violence in Upper Nile State, specifically referencing aerial bombardments in Nasir County and credible reports of civilian casualties. The embassies expressed grave concerns regarding the inability of survivors from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) at the Nasir Garrison to return to safe locations, as well as the ongoing detention of senior officials in Juba without charges.
The international representatives further urged all leaders in South Sudan to refrain from unilateral actions and to denounce the use of violence as a tactic for political competition. The leaders were reminded to prioritize the interests of the South Sudanese populace above all else.
In summary, the international community has actively proposed to facilitate discussions between South Sudan’s leaders in an effort to bring about peace. Urgent calls for direct dialogue were made, highlighting concerns over increasing violence and the plight of individuals affected by the ongoing conflicts. It is imperative for South Sudan’s leaders to act collaboratively, seeking solutions that prioritize their citizens’ welfare.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke
