The IGAD virtual summit addressed the crisis in South Sudan, highlighting its commitment to peace and dialogue. Concerns were raised by AUC Chairperson Mahamat regarding violence in the region, including attacks on UN missions. Calls for restraint, accountability, and a return to national dialogue were emphasized as vital steps towards achieving lasting peace with upcoming elections planned for December 2023.
The IGAD virtual summit zeroed in on the ongoing crisis in South Sudan, reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, tension de-escalation, and a peaceful future for the country. IGAD remains the guarantor of the Revitalized Agreement (R-ARCSS) as it addresses the situation.
Outgoing African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed grave concern regarding escalating tensions in Nasir County of Upper Nile state. His worries were heightened by reports of violence affecting the peace process, particularly attacks on a UN helicopter and violence in regions such as Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el-Ghazal.
Mahamat condemned the surge in violence and urged all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint. He called for accountability from the authorities towards the perpetrators and emphasized the importance of protecting citizens during this unrest. He additionally demanded a halt to hostilities and urged for a swift engagement in national dialogue.
Following years of civil conflict, South Sudan’s leaders signed a peace agreement in 2018. In August 2022, they agreed to extend the transitional period towards a conclusive scenario by February 2025, with elections anticipated in December 2023, following previous delays.
The IGAD virtual summit took crucial steps to address the unrest in South Sudan, emphasizing dialogue and accountability. With significant engagements from leaders like Mahamat, the focus is on de-escalating tensions and nearing a resolution through adherence to peace agreements and national dialogue. The future of South Sudan remains contingent on the commitment of all parties involved to uphold the tenets of trust and cooperation, ultimately leading towards the expected elections.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
