The African Union has renewed its call for the full implementation of South Sudan’s peace agreement, urging all parties to recommit to dialogue and stability ahead of the country’s planned elections in December this year.
The appeal was delivered during a high-level engagement by the AU’s C5 countries, represented by Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa. Speaking on behalf of the C5—an AU mechanism supporting peace efforts in South Sudan President Ramaphosa emphasized the need for unity among political leaders and the acceleration of pending provisions in the revitalized peace agreement.
He stressed that sustainable peace remains essential for credible elections and long-term national stability.
In a related development, William Ruto, President of Kenya, pledged his country’s readiness to mediate among South Sudan’s political actors to ease tensions and prevent further violence. Nigeria also expressed support for diplomatic efforts aimed at consolidating peace and strengthening democratic transition in the country.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the peace process and to guiding the country toward elections scheduled for December. He reiterated that dialogue and constitutional processes remain the only viable path to resolving political differences.
The renewed diplomatic push comes amid military confrontation in parts of Jonglei State, particularly, were clashes last month heightened concerns over local insecurity and political divisions. The violence reportedly stemmed from disputes involving armed groups from SPLA – IO and SSPDF exacerbating fragile security arrangements under the peace agreement.
In connection with the Nasir conflict, Dr. Riek Machar suspected First Vice President and leader of the SPLM-IO and several co-accused were arrested and are currently undergoing trial proceedings in Juba. Authorities have linked the case to allegations related to the unrest in Nasir, though opposition figures maintain that due process and the rule of law must be upheld.
Observers say the outcome of the trial and the broader handling of political grievances will significantly influence public confidence in the peace process and the forthcoming elections.
South Sudan has experienced cycles of conflict since gaining independence in 2011, with a civil war erupting in 2013 following political disputes between President Kiir and Dr. Machar. Although a revitalized peace agreement was signed in 2018, implementation has faced delays, particularly in security sector reforms, transitional justice mechanisms, and electoral preparations.
The African Union and regional partners continue to emphasize that timely implementation of the agreement, inclusive dialogue, and restraint by all parties are critical to ensuring peaceful elections and lasting stability in the world’s youngest nation.
