IGAD Summit Addresses Crisis in South Sudan, Emphasizes Need for Dialogue

The IGAD virtual summit addressed the South Sudan crisis, reaffirming commitment to peace and dialogue. Outgoing AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed concern over escalating violence and urged restraint and accountability. He called for an end to hostilities and emphasized the need for national dialogue to secure a peaceful future.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) recently held a virtual summit addressing the ongoing crisis in South Sudan. As the guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), IGAD reiterated its commitment to fostering dialogue, de-escalating tensions, and ensuring a peaceful future for South Sudanese citizens.

Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, voiced significant concern regarding the increasing clashes and tensions in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. He highlighted recent events, including a deadly attack on a United Nations helicopter and violence occurring in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el-Ghazal, which endanger the peace process in the region.

Mahamat condemned the escalated violence and urged all conflicting parties to exercise maximum restraint. He emphasized the need for authorities to hold accountable those responsible for such actions and to protect civilians effectively. His call to action included an immediate cessation of hostilities and adherence to ceasefire agreements, alongside the necessity for all parties to participate actively in a national dialogue.

Following years of civil conflict, South Sudan’s political leaders signed a peace agreement in 2018. They extend the transitional period with a vision for its conclusion in February 2025, and are targeting elections in December, despite previous delays.

The IGAD summit underscored the urgent need for peace and dialogue in South Sudan amidst ongoing violence. Outgoing AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat condemned recent hostilities and emphasized accountability for violence. The importance of adhering to peace agreements and engaging in national dialogue was reiterated as integral to securing a peaceful future for the nation as it approaches envisaged elections after years of conflict.

Original Source: www.plenglish.com