The international community, which has played a critical role in funding peace initiatives in South Sudan, has expressed deep disappointment over the recent decision to further extend the country’s transition period.
Despite commitments made in the 2022 Roadmap for Peace, the transitional government has failed to meet key milestones outlined in the 2018 peace agreement.
In a joint statement, representatives from the United States, Norway, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Canada voiced their frustration, emphasizing that timely elections are essential for ensuring stability, democracy, and sustainable development in South Sudan.
“The leaders of South Sudan are accountable to their citizens and must take ownership of this decision,” the statement read.
This reaction follows the Presidency’s decision on Sunday to delay elections by an additional two years, further diminishing hopes for a prompt resolution to the country’s political transition.
The extension casts doubt on the leadership’s ability to deliver on its promises for peace and democratic reforms.
“Peace remains our top priority, and we firmly believe it can best be achieved through legitimate and peaceful elections,” the international partners asserted.
They called on South Sudanese leaders to act swiftly and responsibly to create the necessary conditions for credible elections.
The international community reiterated its support for both the Tumaini Initiative talks in Nairobi and high-level discussions in Juba.
The statement further urged the transitional government to engage all stakeholders, including non-signatories to the peace process, in a constructive dialogue.
“The extension must serve a clear purpose and demonstrate progress where previous years have failed,” the statement emphasized. “The process of developing a credible plan for elections must be consultative, inclusive, and transparent.”
Moreover, the international community raised concerns about the financial implications of the two-year extension, noting that it would require continued funding for institutions responsible for implementing the peace process.
“We expect the government of South Sudan to present a transparent and credible plan outlining how these efforts will be financed,” the statement concluded.
