The Revitalized Peace Agreement in South Sudan is hindered by a lack of political will and funding, jeopardizing the elections set for December 2026. Key representatives stress the urgent need for trust-building among parties, completion of unification of armed forces, and a commitment to moving beyond transitional extensions to assure credible elections. The necessity for international support is emphasized, particularly in the face of ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns.
The Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS) in South Sudan is facing significant obstacles, including a lack of political commitment, trust among the involved parties, and inadequate funding support. Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring Commission, highlighted that elections scheduled for December 2026 are jeopardized due to financial constraints and the inability to register parties that maintain armed forces, such as the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition.
Gituai emphasized the need for accelerated unification of armed forces to ensure participation in the upcoming elections, while also noting ongoing intercommunal violence and the exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis due to the Sudan conflict. He praised the efforts of the National Constitutional Amendment and Judicial Reform Committees, asserting that funding availability is crucial for these bodies to fulfill their mandates. Despite a functioning ceasefire, recent skirmishes raise concerns over security stability in the region.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, underscored the urgency of moving beyond transitional extensions, expressing a strong desire for immediate action on the benchmarks established in R-ARCSS. He acknowledged progress in certain areas, including the expansion of civic and political spaces, but warned that existing efforts do not sufficiently prepare for elections or constitutional adoption. The National Elections Commission has launched preliminary initiatives, yet challenges remain due to slow governmental funding.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, pointed to the urgent need for credible elections as the only peaceful transition option, criticizing the past postponements. He reiterated that government-created conditions must assure election credibility and stabilize the country. The South Sudan representative expressed commitment to expedite electoral preparations and assured the Council that their government is actively working towards a permanent constitution.
Council members echoed the necessity for progress toward elections, emphasizing the need for credible, inclusive processes, and security sector reforms. Pakistan’s representative stressed that the two-year extension presents a crucial opportunity. Delegates underscored the importance of securing necessary funds and resources to bring electoral plans to fruition, with Denmark urging that promises materialize into actionable solutions.
The United States highlighted the transitional government’s failures and the lack of political will amid substantial international support. Concerns about rampant sexual violence against women and girls prompted calls for increased participation from marginalized groups in peace initiatives. China and Russia voiced their views on sanctions affecting South Sudan’s stability and security capacity, advocating for adjustments to external constraints that hinder progress in the nation.
The article discusses the challenges facing the Revitalized Peace Agreement in South Sudan, a crucial framework intended to stabilize the country post-conflict. Key issues include lapsing political support, distrust among parties involved, financial limitations affecting election preparations, and ongoing violence that complicates humanitarian efforts. The Security Council, through various representatives, emphasizes the urgent need for constructive engagement to hold credible elections and establish enduring peace.
In conclusion, the pathway towards successful elections in South Sudan necessitates immediate action on financial and political fronts. Continued international support and a commitment to engaging all stakeholders are vital for overcoming the prevailing challenges. The resolution of intercommunal violence, establishment of safety for displaced individuals, and transparent governance will be pivotal as South Sudan moves towards its next electoral milestone.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
