The Tumaini Initiative: A Potential Pathway to Peace in South Sudan
The Tumaini Peace Talks in Nairobi on December 4, 2024, showcased global interest in South Sudan’s peace process. Significant shifts in the RTGoNU’s stance towards the 2018 Peace Agreement and calls for inclusive dialogue were evident. Notably, the urgency for resolution was emphasized, and the potential for the talks to extend indicates complex negotiations ahead. Overall, there is optimism surrounding the Tumaini Initiative’s prospects for fostering meaningful peace in the region.
On December 4, 2024, I participated as a private citizen in the Tumaini Peace Talks in Nairobi. This event witnessed significant attendance from regional and international dignitaries, demonstrating the global commitment to South Sudan’s peaceful future, despite competing crises elsewhere. The opening remarks by Gen. Kuol Manyang aptly acknowledged the contributions of historical leaders in the liberation struggle, reinforcing the foundation for unity and peace in the nation.
A notable shift occurred in the RTGoNU’s stance towards the Tumaini Talks, moving from viewing their outcomes as an addendum toward treating them as complementary to the 2018 Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS). Initially, opposition groups envisioned these talks as superseding the R-ARCSS, but the emphasis has now changed to aligning both processes, as highlighted by Gen. Pagan Amum.
The call for an inclusive dialogue among various factions, including Gen. Thomas Cirillo and Gen. Simon Gatwech, reflects a genuine desire for broader participation in the Tumaini Talks. While some perceive this as potentially disruptive, mediators may need to arrange parallel discussions to engage those who are hesitant.
A minor observation involved the ambiguous mention of a two-week timeline in the joint communiqué following President William Ruto’s visit to Juba on November 6, 2024. Gen. Lazarus Sumbeiywo, the Chief Mediator, clarified that both heads of state had aimed for the Tumaini Talks to conclude within this period, reinforcing the urgency of reaching a peace agreement as a meaningful gift to the people of South Sudan.
However, differing perspectives emerged regarding the status of the initialed protocols. While the RTGoNU expressed a need for adjustments to avoid redundancy and ensure effective implementation, opposition groups firmly rejected any renegotiation attempts. This situation mirrors past experiences, such as the Abyei Protocol, which raises concerns about the implications of reopening previously agreed-upon terms.
Despite the challenges, stakeholders highlighted that outstanding issues between parties are not insurmountable. Encouraging remarks from Professor Pauline Riak underscored the suffering of the South Sudanese people and emphasized that failing to deliver peace from these negotiations is not an option. I left the event optimistic about the Tumaini Initiative’s potential to restore hope and stability in South Sudan, as encapsulated by its name. This hope is expected to drive a revolutionary change rather than be treated casually. However, the talks may extend past the planned two weeks if parties proceed to renegotiate existing protocols.
In conclusion, the Tumaini Peace Talks represent a critical step towards achieving lasting peace in South Sudan, demonstrating an evolving political landscape where dialogue and inclusivity are increasingly prioritized. While there remains some contention regarding the protocols and timelines, the overarching sentiment favors collaboration. With goodwill and focus, the parties involved can work towards a peace agreement that responds to the urgent needs of the South Sudanese people.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
