South Sudanese women, led by Grace John Kenyi, voiced concerns regarding escalating violence threatening the 2018 peace agreement. They called for immediate action to address both conflict and economic struggles affecting vulnerable populations, and emphasized the importance of dialogue and international support for lasting peace.
A segment of South Sudanese women has expressed grave concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions within their country, particularly the potential collapse of the 2018 peace agreement and the Tumaini Initiative. At a press conference held in Juba, Grace John Kenyi, a noted peace activist and human rights defender, condemned the escalating violence, including recent conflicts in Nasir, Upper Nile State.
The women conveyed their condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for the loss of one of its crew members and to the families grieving their losses amid the ongoing conflict. Kenyi stressed the alarming rise of threats to both the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative, warning that these threats risk triggering a return to full-scale war.
Kenyi emphasized the human cost of the violence, urging that the lives lost are not mere statistics but the futures of the nation’s youth. The women unanimously called for immediate action to halt both the current conflict and the deepening economic crisis, which severely impacts the most vulnerable populations.
The activists also condemned the use of social media for spreading hate speech, propaganda, and misinformation. They urged citizens to denounce such behavior, stating it exacerbates tensions and divisions within communities.
The women praised the government for efforts made towards maintaining peace and urged all R-ARCSS signatories to engage in dialogue to diminish tensions and promote peace. Furthermore, they called upon the international community to support independent investigations into the violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
In their appeals, they requested South Sudanese ministries to prioritize dialogue, uphold the rule of law, protect vulnerable citizens, and expedite the implementation of peace agreements for restoring stability. Additionally, they urged the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) and other regional bodies to reinforce the importance of adhering to ceasefire agreements and ensuring the protection of civilians.
The women also called on diplomatic missions in South Sudan to advocate for peace, accountability, and humanitarian assistance, while collaborating with international partners to ensure lasting stability. They specifically appealed to the White Army, urging them to reject violence and embrace peaceful dialogue.
Lilian Sukeji Micheal, another activist, highlighted their plans to engage women in government positions in the peace process, indicating a commitment to involve political women leaders in their advocacy efforts.
The statements from South Sudanese women reflect deep concerns over escalating violence and political instability in the country. They call for immediate action from stakeholders to preserve the fragile peace agreements and address the socio-economic crises affecting vulnerable populations. Their collective appeals emphasize the need for dialogue, accountability, and active participation from all levels of government, alongside international support to foster lasting peace and stability.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
