Excellences, ladies and Gentlemen,
We are deeply alarmed by the deteriorating situation in South Sudan and specially the violence in Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal and Western Equatorial States.
It is well known that the path to peace and stability requires compromise, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to dialogue.
It is, also, well known we have fought very hard to establish the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. Since its inception in 2018, this agreement has served as a cornerstone of hope, not only for South Sudan but for our entire region.
We believe that this agreement was and remains the instrument that will bring peace and stability in South Sudan.
However, although we think that all the consecutive extensions of the transitional period were necessary steps meant to fortify the dialogue, renewed tensions caused by theses extensions and the volatile situation on the ground are a cause for grave concern.
Indeed, the resurgence of violence in locations such as Nasir in Upper Nile State and Eastern Equatorial, has severely impacted peace efforts. We mourn the loss of lives in this recent spate of violence and send our heartfelt condolences to the families and to the nation as a whole.
We are, equally, concerned about the underlying political tensions exemplified by the recent arrests of senior Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity officials. It is imperative that we engage in concerted dialogue to quickly resolve these issues and restore faith in the peace process.
These developments are a stark reminder that the peace process remains fragile and that any misstep could have catastrophic consequences.
As Chair of IGAD, I urge the leadership of the Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict. Let this summit serve as a reaffirmation of our collective dedication to the peace dividends that have been gained since 2018.
The efforts by H.E President William Ruto at reinforcing the journey for peace and stability in South Sudan through the Tumaini Initiative are commendable. We affirm the commitment of IGAD to build on the outcomes of this initiative in order to support South Sudan through the extended transition period of the Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity mandate.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
The people of South Sudan have placed their hopes in this peace agreement, and it is our collective duty to ensure that their aspirations of peace and stability become a reality.
To this end, Djibouti propose the following actions:
1. Immediate De-escalation: We call on all parties to cease hostilities, release detained officials, and refrain from any actions that could further inflame tensions.
2. Accelerated Implementation of the Peace Agreement: A clear timeline must be established for the unification and deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces, the drafting of a permanent constitution, and the preparation for credible elections. IGAD should appoint a high-level monitoring team to oversee this process.
3. Enhanced Regional Support: IGAD member states must increase their political, technical, and logistical support to ensure the successful implementation of the peace agreement.
4. Inclusive Dialogue: We must facilitate a renewed dialogue between all stakeholders, including the government, opposition groups, civil society, and traditional leaders, to address theunderlying causes of conflict and build a shared vision for the future.
To the leaders of South Sudan: the eyes of your people and the world are upon you. The challenges are significant, but not insurmountable if tackled together. I call upon both the H.E the President and H.E the First Vice President to engage in open dialogue and cooperation. Your leadership and sincerity in these trying times are critical to navigating your nation back to the path of enduring peace.
As I conclude, I call upon the UN, the AU and all international partners people and friends of South Sudan to continue to support the country technically and financially during these 2 years of extension of the transition.
I Thank You all.
Download the attached Speech in PDF below.
Statement of HE President of Republic of Djibouti Ismael Omar Guelleh
