President William Ruto emphasizes the importance of dialogue in resolving the South Sudan conflict. Recent discussions with President Kiir and Vice President Machar focused on stabilizing the nation amid ongoing violence. The Tumaini Initiative and the Revitalised Agreement highlight regional efforts to achieve lasting peace.
President William Ruto has reaffirmed his commitment to promoting peace in South Sudan by advocating for dialogue as the optimal approach to restore security in the nation. As the chairman of the East African Community, Ruto has consistently urged a ceasefire among conflicting parties to prioritize the well-being of South Sudan.
On Thursday, President Ruto engaged in discussions with President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar regarding the deteriorating security conditions in South Sudan. He urged both leaders to participate in dialogue to facilitate peace, while also highlighting the regional efforts aimed at stabilizing the country through IGAD’s Strategic Framework.
Ruto stated, “I implored both leaders to engage in dialogue towards fostering peace in the country even as the region works towards the stabilisation of South Sudan under IGAD’s Strategic Framework.” He added that ongoing regional consultations aim to identify effective strategies for addressing the situation in South Sudan.
The civil war in South Sudan began in December 2013 due to political disagreements within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), and it has been exacerbated by long-standing ethnic tensions, resulting in significant civilian displacement. Despite multiple peace agreements and ceasefires established in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2024, instability continues to plague the nation.
The Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, enacted in June 2018, resulted in a ceasefire and the establishment of a unity government. However, slow implementation has allowed violence to persist. Recent peace talks known as the “Tumaini Initiative” resumed in late November 2024 after a hiatus, involving significant groups that did not sign the earlier 2018 Juba Agreement.
Among the armed factions that have joined this initiative are the Sudan Liberation Army Movement, the Arko Minawi wing, the Justice and Equality Movement, and Malik Aqar’s faction, along with several others. The Nairobi Tumaini Initiative is designed to complement IGAD’s commitment to enforcing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
In summary, President William Ruto’s call for dialogue reflects a critical step towards achieving peace in South Sudan amidst ongoing conflict. The involvement of regional bodies and renewed peace initiatives underscores the necessity of collaboration in resolving the complexities of the situation. Continued engagement from key leaders is essential for the effective implementation of peace agreements.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
