The African Union Mission in South Sudan (AUMISS), IGAD, and UNMISS have recognized strides in the South Sudan peace process in 2024, emphasizing the importance of 2025 for completing crucial aspects of the revitalized peace agreement. They commend the ceasefire, the government’s initiatives, and the need for swift action on transitional tasks, while reiterating the importance of transparency and collaboration among all stakeholders ahead of the December 2026 elections.
The African Union Mission in South Sudan (AUMISS), along with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), has recognized significant progress made by the South Sudanese government under the 2018 revitalized peace agreement throughout 2024. In a recent joint statement released to Radio Tamazuj, these organizations highlight 2025 as a crucial year for prioritizing the completion of essential tasks necessary for the ongoing peace process.
The statement praises the achievements of the peace process, particularly the enduring ceasefire, and calls for the swift integration of the remaining Necessary Unified Forces alongside comprehensive transitional security arrangements. Additionally, it commends the groundwork laid for upcoming electoral and constitutional decisions, emphasizing the importance of these developments for country stability and governance.
Despite the notable advancements, there remains significant concern regarding delays in key transitional functions, which necessitated the recent extension of the transitional period. The trilateral partners commend President Salva Kiir’s initiative to engage President William Ruto of Kenya in resolving issues with hesitating factions, which has advanced discussions via the Tumaini Initiative. The collective urges that ensuing negotiations be fruitful in bringing all parties into the peace agreement’s fold.
As 2025 approaches, there is a collective encouragement from the trilateral partners towards the government’s assurance that this latest transitional extension will be the final one. They stress the need for the South Sudanese government to utilize this period effectively to meet outstanding benchmarks urgently and collaboratively. The emphasis is placed on the significance of transparency and communication among all stakeholders, including political parties and civil society, regarding the peace process and its complexities.
Crucially, the partners assert the necessity of establishing clarity in the early stages of the new year to facilitate realistic electoral planning for the December 2026 elections. They advocate for a demonstration of commitment from South Sudan to complete transitional objectives in order to secure the continued support of the international community, which is otherwise consumed by various global crises.
The trilateral partners reaffirm their dedication to assisting the South Sudanese populace towards achieving tangible milestones in the peace process throughout 2025, with an eye towards credible elections in 2026.
The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has caused significant humanitarian crises and political instability since the nation attained independence in 2011. The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, signed in 2018, aimed to address these issues by establishing a framework for peace and governance. The role of international entities such as AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS is vital in facilitating dialogue and monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, with the goal of fostering stability and development in the region. The timeline of 2025 marks a significant opportunity for South Sudan to solidify its commitment to peace and democratic governance, culminating in the planned elections in December 2026.
In conclusion, the joint statement from AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS emphasizes the progress achieved in South Sudan’s peace process and highlights 2025 as a critical year for addressing remaining challenges. By leveraging the current transitional period and ensuring inclusivity and urgency in negotiations, South Sudan can move towards successful elections in 2026 while maintaining the support of the international community. The ongoing commitment to civic engagement and collaboration among stakeholders is essential for realizing a sustainable and peaceful future for South Sudan.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
