President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh of Djibouti addresses the ongoing violence in South Sudan, stressing the need for peace dialogue and the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement. He proposes actions including immediate de-escalation, accelerated peace agreement implementation, enhanced regional support, and inclusive dialogue among stakeholders. Guelleh calls for strong leadership from South Sudan’s leaders and urges international support during the transition period.
His Excellency Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti, expressed grave concern regarding the escalating violence in South Sudan, particularly in Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Western Equatorial States. He emphasized the necessity for compromise, inclusivity, and genuine dialogue to achieve peace and stability. The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict, established in 2018, remains crucial for South Sudan and the surrounding region, despite challenges arising from the transitional period’s extensions.
President Guelleh noted that renewed tensions and violence in areas such as Nasir have posed significant setbacks to peace efforts, resulting in tragic loss of life. He expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and highlighted the importance of addressing underlying political tensions, including the recent arrests of officials from the Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity. Initiating concerted dialogue is essential to restore faith in the peace process.
As Chair of IGAD, President Guelleh called on South Sudan’s leadership to show a strong commitment to the Revitalized Agreement. He recognized the commendable efforts of H.E. President William Ruto in supporting peace initiatives and expressed IGAD’s determination to bolster these efforts during the extended transitional period.
President Guelleh outlined several proposed actions for fostering peace in South Sudan, including:
1. Immediate De-escalation: All parties should halt hostilities, release detained officials, and avoid actions that could exacerbate tensions.
2. Accelerated Implementation of the Peace Agreement: Establish a clear timeline for the unification and deployment of Necessary Unified Forces, drafting a permanent constitution, and organizing credible elections, under the oversight of a high-level monitoring team from IGAD.
3. Enhanced Regional Support: Member states of IGAD must amplify political, technical, and logistical backing for the successful execution of the peace agreement.
4. Inclusive Dialogue: Facilitate dialogue among all stakeholders, encompassing government, opposition groups, civil society, and traditional leaders, to tackle underlying conflict causes and create a unified future vision.
The president urged South Sudan’s leaders to exercise leadership and engage in meaningful dialogue, stressing the necessity of cooperation in overcoming significant challenges. He concluded by calling on the UN, AU, and international partners to continue their technical and financial support during this critical transitional period in South Sudan.
In conclusion, President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh’s statement emphasizes the urgent need for peace and stability in South Sudan, underscoring the importance of dialogue and collective efforts among all stakeholders. The proposed actions aim to address violence, political tensions, and enhance regional support, ultimately fulfilling the aspirations of the South Sudanese people for lasting peace. Collaboration among local leaders, as well as support from the international community, remains vital for a successful transition and the implementation of the peace agreement.
Original Source: igad.int
