The IGAD leaders have stressed the importance of dialogue to resolve tensions in South Sudan, following their 43rd Extraordinary Assembly. They condemned recent violence, reaffirmed the importance of the R-ARCSS peace agreement, and called for immediate de-escalation and adherence to the ceasefire. They aim to enhance accountability through investigations and encourage active participation from civil society in peace processes.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) leaders have expressed that dialogue is the essential pathway to resolving hostilities in South Sudan. In a statement following their 43rd Extraordinary Assembly, they emphasized the need for all parties to de-escalate tensions and honor the permanent ceasefire, while voicing concern over the renewed violence and ceasefire violations in the nation.
The heads of state reaffirmed the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) from 2018 as the foundation of the peace process. They condemned the recent killing of General Majur Duk, Commander of the SSPDF forces, and others during a UN evacuation effort. The assembly called for the respective parties to de-escalate tensions and respect the ceasefire immediately, as well as for the release of detained officials.
In their resolutions, they underscored the urgency in implementing Transitional Security Arrangements with timely resource allocation. The assembly tasked the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanisms (CTSAMVM) to investigate the clashes in Nasir and the assault on a UN helicopter, aiming to ensure accountability for any violations.
Additionally, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan was instructed to engage actively with armed groups to ensure strict adherence to the ceasefire agreement. The leaders endorsed grassroots peace dialogues and encouraged involvement from civil society, religious, and traditional leaders to foster reconciliation efforts and support the empowerment of marginalized groups, including women and youth.
Chaired by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, the summit also included participation from leaders and representatives from various nations and organizations, reflecting a unified approach towards tackling South Sudan’s ongoing challenges.
In conclusion, the IGAD leaders have reiterated the crucial need for dialogue and adherence to existing peace agreements to overcome the ongoing tensions in South Sudan. By emphasizing collaborative efforts and accountability, they aim to facilitate a stable and peaceful resolution to the conflict, while also advocating for the involvement of various societal sectors in reconciliation initiatives.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
