2025: A Crucial Year for South Sudan’s Peace Process and Upcoming Elections
In a joint communique, AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS recognize the progress in implementing the 2018 revitalized peace agreement and emphasize that 2025 is a crucial year for South Sudan. They commend the ceasefire achievements while urging prompt completion of transitional tasks and inclusivity in the peace process. Furthermore, they stress the importance of civic engagement and realistic election planning for December 2026, pledging ongoing support for South Sudan.
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), released a joint communique acknowledging advancements achieved regarding the 2018 revitalized peace agreement in the year 2024. They stressed that the year 2025 presents a critical opportunity to prioritize the remaining tasks necessary for the implementation of this significant agreement.
The communique conveyed appreciation for the peace brought about through a sustained ceasefire and reiterated the importance of completing the deployment of the remaining Necessary Unified Forces and broader transitional security arrangements. They also commended the commencement of the foundational work by technical mechanisms responsible for the electoral and constitutional processes.
However, the partners expressed concern over delays in essential transitional tasks, which prompted the government’s decision to extend the transitional period once again in September. They acknowledged President Salva Kiir’s commitment to seeking assistance from Kenyan President William Ruto regarding the stalled mediation with holdout groups, leading to the creation of the Tumaini Initiative.
The trilateral partners urged that negotiations should reach a consensus to include holdout groups in the peace process. They indicated their encouragement regarding the President’s assurance that the latest transitional extension would indeed be the final one, and his vow that the nation would not revert to conflict. There is a strong call to the government to capitalize on this extended timeframe to address outstanding benchmarks to the best of their ability.
The three organizations emphasized the necessity for expanded civic education and engagement amongst stakeholders, such as political parties, civil society, and the media, to tackle challenges related to peace implementation. They highlighted the importance of establishing clear objectives at the outset of 2025 to facilitate realistic planning for elections scheduled for December 2026. The communique stressed that South Sudan must show absolute commitment to fulfilling its critical transitional responsibilities to maintain the trust and support of the international community amidst global crises.
Lastly, the AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS pledged continued support for the people of South Sudan as they strive toward tangible advancements in the peace process in 2025 and credible elections in December 2026.
The peace process in South Sudan has been ongoing since the civil war erupted in 2013, causing significant political and social strife. The 2018 revitalized peace agreement aimed to unite conflicting factions and bring an end to violence. The involvement of AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS signifies strong regional and international interest in supporting South Sudan’s transition towards stability and democracy. The focus for 2025 is on fulfilling the key promises of this agreement, which includes completing necessary security arrangements and setting a timeline for elections.
The communique from AUMISS, IGAD, and UNMISS emphasizes the pivotal role of 2025 in South Sudan’s peace process, urging the government and parties to address outstanding issues promptly. The collaborative efforts are directed towards achieving lasting peace and preparing for credible elections in December 2026. A commitment to civic education and engagement is also a crucial aspect to mobilize various stakeholders towards successful implementation of the peace framework.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
