President William Ruto urges South Sudan’s leaders to engage in dialogue to restore peace and security. He emphasizes regional cooperation and consultations while acknowledging the ongoing civil conflict and the challenges in implementing past peace agreements. The resumption of the Tumaini Initiative peace talks seeks to include major factions to support stabilization efforts in South Sudan.
President William Ruto has demonstrated a persistent commitment to fostering regional peace initiatives by promoting dialogue as the most viable solution to restore security in South Sudan. Acting in his capacity as chairman of the East African Community, Ruto has continually urged the conflicting parties to prioritize the country’s welfare over their differences, advocating for a ceasefire in this volatile region.
Recently, Ruto engaged in discussions with President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar regarding the escalating security crisis. During their conversation, he emphasized the necessity of dialogue to facilitate peace and informed them of ongoing regional consultations aimed at determining effective strategies for stabilizing South Sudan.
Since December 2013, South Sudan has been embroiled in civil unrest, primarily due to internal political disagreements within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). This conflict has been exacerbated by longstanding ethnic tensions, resulting in significant civilian displacement and ongoing violence between government and opposition forces.
Efforts at peace have been attempted multiple times, with ceasefires and peace agreements established in 2015, 2017, 2018, and projected for 2024. Despite these attempts, stability remains elusive. The 2018 Revitalised Agreement brought a temporary ceasefire and the establishment of a unity government; however, the slow implementation of the agreement has allowed violence to continue.
The recent resumption of the Kenya-brokered peace talks, known as the “Tumaini Initiative,” in late November 2024, seeks to include significant factions that did not endorse the 2018 Juba Agreement. Notable signatory groups include the Sudan Liberation Army Movement, the Arko Minawi wing, the Justice and Equality Movement, and Malik Aqar’s faction.
This Tumaini Initiative is designed to support and enhance IGAD’s objectives in executing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
In conclusion, President William Ruto’s dedication to peace in South Sudan is evident through his call for dialogue among leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Machar. Despite the ongoing turbulence stemming from civil conflict, regional initiatives, including the Tumaini Initiative, demonstrate a collective commitment to establish stability and forward movement in South Sudan’s peace process. Adhering to diplomatic efforts remains crucial in resolving this enduring conflict.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
