The IGAD virtual summit is focused on the South Sudan crisis, affirming its commitment to dialogue and peace. Concerns over heightened tensions and violence were expressed, including attacks threatening the peace process. Authorities are called to ensure accountability and engage in national dialogue. A peace agreement was signed in 2018 with elections planned amidst a prolonged transitional phase.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) held a virtual summit to address the ongoing crisis in South Sudan. Emphasizing its role as the guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), IGAD remains dedicated to fostering dialogue, reducing tensions, and ensuring peace for the nation’s citizens.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed significant concern regarding rising tensions and violent incidents in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. A recent press release detailed several violent events, including an attack on a United Nations helicopter, which jeopardizes ongoing peace efforts.
Mahamat condemned the escalated violence and urged all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint. He emphasized the need for swift accountability for those responsible for violence and insisted that authorities take measures to protect residents from harm.
Additionally, he called for an immediate halt to hostilities, urged adherence to ceasefire agreements, and stressed the importance of urgent national dialogue among all parties.
Following years of civil war, political leaders in South Sudan signed a peace agreement in 2018. In August 2022, they agreed to extend the transitional period, aiming for a conclusion in February 2025, with elections scheduled for December this year, amidst delays in the process.
The IGAD virtual summit highlights a critical commitment to resolving the South Sudan crisis. With escalated violence threatening peace, notable figures like Mahamat are urging restraint and accountability. Continuous dialogue and adherence to ceasefire agreements are emphasized as essential for ensuring stability and allowing electoral processes to proceed as planned. It underscores the importance of international cooperation in resolving regional conflicts.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
