President William Ruto advocates for dialogue as the solution to the South Sudan conflict and emphasizes the need for ceasefire amidst escalating violence. He urges President Kiir and First Vice President Machar to engage in discussions to foster peace and highlights the ongoing regional consultations. The turbulent history of conflict and various stalled peace agreements accentuates the need for effective mechanisms, such as the Tumaini Initiative, to restore stability in the nation.
President William Ruto continues to lead regional peace efforts advocating for dialogue as the key to restoring security in South Sudan. He has called for a ceasefire in the nation, utilizing his role as chairman of the East African Community to encourage the conflicting parties to prioritize national unity. On Thursday, Ruto communicated with President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar regarding the worsening security situation, urging them to engage in dialogue to foster peace.
Ruto emphasized the importance of regional consultations to determine effective solutions for South Sudan’s security challenges. The nation has been embroiled in civil war since December 2013, triggered by political disagreements within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). The violence rooted in ethnic tensions has led to the mass displacement of civilians, involving both government and opposition forces.
Efforts towards peace have faced challenges despite multiple ceasefires and agreements in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2024. The June 2018 Revitalised Agreement facilitated a ceasefire and unity government, but slow implementation has led to ongoing violence. Recently, the Kenya-brokered peace talks known as the “Tumaini Initiative” resumed in late November 2024, engaging significant holdout groups that had not signed the 2018 Juba Agreement, including the Sudan Liberation Army Movement and Malik Aqar’s wing.
The Nairobi Tumaini Initiative works alongside IGAD’s efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, aiming for long-lasting peace and stability in the region.
President Ruto’s commitment to facilitating dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders illustrates a proactive approach to conflict resolution. The ongoing challenges stemming from historical ethnic tensions and slow peace agreement implementations highlight the need for continued regional support. By reinforcing several peace initiatives, including the Tumaini Initiative, there is hope for a more stable and peaceful South Sudan in the future.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
