Your Excellency Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, Chairperson of IGAD and President of the Republic of Djibouti,
Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Your Excellency Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD,
Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I extend my sincere appreciation to IGAD for convening this extraordinary session at such a critical juncture for our brotherly nation, the Republic of South Sudan. The challenges facing our brothers and sisters in South Sudan remain a matter of regional and continental concern. Somalia stands firmly in solidarity with the people of South Sudan, and we remain committed to supporting efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region.
We recognize the enormous efforts that have been made to bring peace to South Sudan, particularly through the 2018 Revitalized Agreement which IGAD has tirelessly supported as a guarantor. This agreement represents the most viable roadmap for peace, and its full implementation remains the surest path to stability and reconciliation.
However, recent developments have demonstrated that challenges remain, and it is imperative that all stakeholders recommit themselves to this agreement.
We gather here today not only to express concern but to offer solutions, encourage dialogue, and work together to support the South Sudanese people in realizing their aspirations for peace.
An immediate cessation of hostilities and Commitment to Peace
The escalating tensions and reports of renewed confrontations are deeply concerning. The consequences of continued violence are devastating for the people of South Sudan and pose risks to the wider region. We strongly urge all parties to commit to an immediate cessation of hostilities and to resolve differences through dialogue rather than conflict.
We are encouraged by past instances where mediation has yielded results, and we believe that with goodwill, patience, and commitment, peace is within reach. The IGAD-led peace process has always emphasized dialogue over confrontation, and we must continue to encourage and facilitate engagement between allstakeholders.
The urgency of unifying South Sudanese Security Forces
A fundamental pillar of the IGAD revitalized agreement is the unification of national security forces.
The delays in implementing this aspect of the agreement have contributed to uncertainty and insecurity, making conflict more likely. It is therefore critical that South Sudan accelerates the formation and deployment of the Unified National Forces to restore confidence in state institutions and ensure security across the country.
Somalia stands in full support of IGAD’s efforts to provide technical and logistical assistance to expedite this process. We urge all stakeholders to approach this issue with urgency, as a stable security framework is a prerequisite for sustainable peace.
The Need to Restore Dialogue Between the President and the First Vice President
The breakdown in communication between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is a major concern. Their continued engagement is vital for national unity and the full implementation of the peace process.
We encourage renewed efforts to rebuild trust, restore direct communication, and foster collaboration between the leadership of South Sudan. We must remind ourselves that political disagreements are natural in governance, but their resolution must always be through consultation, consensus and compromise.
Somalia, stands ready to support any IGAD-led initiative aimed at facilitating meaningful dialogue between the two leaders and their respective constituencies.
We encourage South Sudan to take further steps to depoliticize state institutions, ensuring that they serve as pillars of national unity.
The Urgent Need to Revitalize the 2018 Peace Agreement
The Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018 remains the foundation for peace, security, and governance in South Sudan. While progress has been made, there are still areas where implementation is lagging. We strongly encourage all stakeholders to recommit themselves to the full execution of this agreement. South Sudan has come a long way in its journey towards peace, and the responsibility now falls on its leaders to ensure that this progress is sustained. Political unity, reconciliation, and inclusive nation-building must be prioritized over factional disputes.
We encourage South Sudan’s government to lead by example, demonstrating commitment to peaceful governance, national unity, and development. The future of South Sudan depends on dialogue, inclusivity, and adherence to the principles of the revitalized peace process.
Conclusion: A call for renewed Commitment to Peace
South Sudan stands at a crossroads. It can either continue down a path of division, conflict, and suffering, or it can choose peace, reconciliation, and national unity. The responsibility falls not just on its leaders, but also on all of us in IGAD and the international community.
The people of South Sudan have waited too long for lasting peace, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that this crucial moment is not lost.
Let us reaffirm our commitment to working together, in the spirit of regional unity and cooperation, to ensure that South Sudan achieves the peace and stability that its people so desperately deserve.
I thank you.
