On February 5, 2025, Dmitry Polyanskiy addressed the UNSC about South Sudan, praising stability efforts, the government’s two-year transitional period extension, and the humanitarian issues. He condemned violations of peace agreements and urged cooperation for effective resolutions between South Sudan authorities and UN personnel.
On February 5, 2025, First Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Polyanskiy expressed gratitude towards the Special Representative, civil society, and the leadership of South Sudan during a UNSC briefing. He acknowledged the government’s decision to extend the transitional period by two years and postpone elections to December 2026, advocating that voting issues are internal matters for South Sudan.
Polyanskiy praised the relative stability achieved in South Sudan and called for the South Sudanese parties’ commitment to executing the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Emphasizing the formation of unified armed forces, he noted that both government efforts and opposition cooperation are vital for progress. He also highlighted the outdated sanctions affecting state security institutions and stressed the need for revision ahead of the UNSC’s discussion in May.
The briefing addressed the humanitarian crisis worsened by natural disasters and refugee movements, which pose challenges for the states of South Sudan. Despite these difficulties, the Sudanese authorities, supported by UNMISS and humanitarian agencies, have managed to maintain stability. Polyanskiy endorsed international mediation efforts aimed at normalizing the situation and commended UNMISS’s role in implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
He condemned actions violating the peace agreement and any violence against civilians or UN personnel. Polyanskiy urged both South Sudanese authorities and UNMISS leadership to adopt flexibility and a constructive approach in addressing current issues.
The briefing held by First Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Polyanskiy at the UNSC focused on the current situation in South Sudan amidst significant challenges such as humanitarian crises, a recent decision to extend transition periods, and the importance of implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Given South Sudan’s unique political and social landscape, ongoing international efforts, including support from the African Union and IGAD, play a critical role in achieving stability and peace in the region.
In summary, the briefing highlighted the internal political decisions of South Sudan, the necessity for unity among South Sudanese parties in implementing peace agreements, and the urgent humanitarian situation. A call to action was made for international cooperation to strengthen the security environment, address humanitarian challenges, and ensure adherence to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Original Source: www.america-times.com
