H.E. Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, expressed alarm over escalating violence in South Sudan during an IGAD summit. He emphasized the revitalized peace agreement’s role in fostering stability and proposed immediate actions to de-escalate the situation, implement the agreement, enhance regional support, and encourage inclusive dialogue among stakeholders. Guelleh urged leaders to cooperate, warning that the fragile peace process requires urgent collective engagement from both national and international actors.
In a recent statement delivered at an IGAD summit, H.E. Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, expressed concern over the escalating violence in South Sudan, particularly in regions like Upper Nile and Western Bahr el Ghazal. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and compromise for lasting peace, reiterating that the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict, established in 2018, is fundamental for stability in the region.
President Guelleh noted that while the extensions of the transitional period aimed to strengthen dialogue, they have coincided with renewed violence, particularly incidents affecting Nasir in Upper Nile State and Eastern Equatorial. He conveyed condolences for lives lost during these conflicts, reflecting on their negative impact on ongoing peace efforts.
Further articulating the concerns regarding political tensions, Guelleh highlighted recent arrests of senior government officials, stressing that dialogue is crucial for resolving such issues and restoring faith in the peace process. He cautioned that the current situation illustrates the fragility of peace in South Sudan and that any errors could lead to disastrous outcomes.
As IGAD Chair, he urged the leadership of South Sudan to reaffirm their commitment to the peace agreement, emphasizing the need for unity in pursuing the dividends of peace gained since 2018. He commended H.E. President William Ruto for his Tumaini Initiative aimed at fostering stability and pledged support from IGAD for the transitional government.
To support peace in South Sudan, President Guelleh proposed several actions:
1. Immediate De-escalation: Call for cessation of hostilities and the release of detained officials.
2. Accelerated Implementation: Establishing a timeline for the unification of armed forces and preparations for credible elections.
3. Enhanced Regional Support: Increase political and logistical support from IGAD member states for effective implementation of the agreement.
4. Inclusive Dialogue: Renewed engagement among all stakeholders to address conflict causes and create a shared vision for the future.
He urged South Sudan leaders to engage earnestly with their people and each other, asserting that cooperation is vital for overcoming their challenges. Guelleh concluded his remarks by calling on international partners to continue their support for South Sudan during this transitional phase, reinforcing the collective responsibility to fulfil the hopes of the South Sudanese people.
In summary, H.E. Ismaïl Omar Guelleh’s address at the IGAD summit highlighted critical concerns about the volatile situation in South Sudan. He called for immediate action towards peace through dialogue, an accelerated implementation of the peace agreement, enhanced regional support, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. The future of South Sudan’s stability rests upon collective efforts, cooperation among leaders, and sustained international support to realize the hopes of its citizens for lasting peace.
Original Source: igad.int
