South Sudan’s government is urged to affirm its commitment to the 2018 peace deal as violence escalates and elections near. The Tumaini Peace Initiative aims to address key issues but has faced multiple delays. Leaders must reconcile disputes to avoid a return to conflict, highlighting pressures from international and regional stakeholders.
South Sudan’s transitional government faces heightened pressure to reinforce the 2018 peace agreement amidst escalating violence and political tensions. With the 2026 elections approaching, both international and regional stakeholders urge President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to avert further destabilization. The Tumaini Peace Initiative is set to resume in Nairobi, aimed at addressing critical issues related to security and inclusivity, following multiple postponements. The African Union and United Nations have cautioned South Sudan risks slipping back into full-scale conflict unless substantial resolutions are made.
Recent clashes in Upper Nile State, primarily between government forces and the White Army militia, have exacerbated the fragile security situation. A tragic incident involving a United Nations helicopter resulted in a crew member’s death and injured others, amplifying fears regarding the effectiveness of the peace deal’s security measures. President Salva Kiir stated, “The government which I lead will handle this crisis. We will remain steadfast in the path of peace.”
Political tensions in Juba have also intensified following the arrests of several senior officials tied to Machar, with accusations of violations against power-sharing agreements from his camp. In response to these developments, Machar’s office condemned the government’s actions, pledging to prioritize peace efforts. Daniel Akech Thiong from the International Crisis Group warned, “The fragile peace that has maintained a delicate balance among competing armed leaders since 2018 is at risk of collapsing.”
As preparations for the upcoming Tumaini talks advance, mediators stress the need to tackle key unresolved issues, including security sector reforms and political representation, to restore trust among the conflicting parties. South Sudan’s Cabinet Affairs Minister, Martin Elia Lomurö, emphasized the importance of returning with tangible peace outcomes.
Regional and international bodies such as the African Union and the United Nations are amplifying their diplomatic initiatives to avert a situation of full-blown conflict. The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan pointed out a worrying trend that threatens the hard-earned progress towards peace, urging South Sudanese leaders to refocus on human rights and democracy.
In conclusion, South Sudan’s leaders face immense pressure to uphold the 2018 peace deal as violence and political tensions resurge. The Tumaini Peace Initiative presents a critical opportunity to address unresolved security issues and political inclusivity ahead of the 2026 elections. With international and regional entities intensifying their efforts, the need for effective diplomacy and adherence to peaceful negotiations remains paramount to prevent a relapse into conflict.
Original Source: africa.cgtn.com
