President Salva Kiir Mayardit confirmed the Tumaini negotiations in Nairobi aim to integrate hold-out groups into the existing 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, not replace it. The extension of the transitional period to 2026 was deemed necessary yet regrettable due to stalled progress. Haysom emphasized the need for actionable plans to fulfill commitments to the South Sudanese people amid significant humanitarian challenges.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan has reaffirmed the commitment to the Tumaini peace talks with hold-out groups, emphasizing that these discussions, taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, are not intended to produce a parallel agreement nor dismantle the existing Revitalized Peace Agreement established in 2018. At the commencement of the 8th annual Governor’s Forum in Juba, he articulated the goal of these talks as bridging gaps and addressing concerns of the hold-out groups, thereby integrating their reservations into the existing framework rather than creating a new one.
President Kiir further expressed that crafting an agreement to replace the current one would undermine the fundamental principle of inclusivity and perpetuate cycles of conflict. In a move to expedite the negotiation process, he noted the decision to restructure the government delegation tasked with the Tumaini talks.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, described the extension of the transitional period by two years and the postponement of elections as regrettable yet unavoidable, mainly due to a lack of progress on pivotal aspects of the agreement. He underscored the necessity for a clearly defined and realistic work plan focused on urgent implementation to fulfill commitments made to the South Sudanese populace.
President Kiir stressed the importance of preparing for the upcoming elections in December 2026, stating, “If you are not prepared, you better start preparing yourselves.” Haysom added that both South Sudanese leaders and citizens share a vision for moving beyond persistent conflict towards constructive peacebuilding.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, highlighted the critical need for national and state leaders to ensure swift access for humanitarian organizations amid ongoing challenges, including violent constraints and bureaucratic hindrances that obstruct aid delivery.
The Governor’s Forum serves as a vital platform for high-level interactions aimed at fostering collaboration and better understanding of security and economic situations necessary for the effective implementation of the peace agreement. The current humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, with nine million individuals requiring assistance and extensive food insecurity, stresses the urgency for actionable measures to address these pressing issues.
The article pertains to the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace in South Sudan following a long history of conflict and unrest. The Tumaini peace negotiations aim to include hold-out groups that have not yet fully participated in the existing Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018. Under the leadership of President Salva Kiir, these negotiations are seen as essential to building a cohesive government structure and fostering inclusivity. The challenges faced by the nation, including humanitarian crises and the need for effective governance, underscore the importance of these discussions. The involvement of organizations such as the United Nations highlights the international community’s support for these peace efforts, emphasizing collaboration between national and local leaders to address the root causes of conflict.
In conclusion, the Tumaini peace talks represent a crucial step towards enhancing the existing peace framework in South Sudan rather than replacing it. The commitment of President Salva Kiir and the engagement of international representatives underscore the imperative need for cohesive strategies to overcome ongoing challenges, including humanitarian access and governance issues. The emphasis on preparing for future elections and addressing the concerns of all stakeholders reflects a broader vision for sustainable peace and development in the region.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
