The South Sudan peace talks resumed in Nairobi with the transitional government and opposition groups, led by chief mediator Lazarus Sumbeiywo. The negotiations, named “Tumaini,” aim to conclude in two weeks, following a directive from the leaders of Kenya and South Sudan. The talks strive to address ongoing issues despite previous agreements in an effort to build lasting peace.
Peace talks between South Sudan’s Transitional Government of National Unity and opposing factions resumed in Nairobi on December 5. Chief mediator Lazarus Sumbeiywo announced the negotiations, named “Tumaini,” meaning hope, are set to conclude in two weeks. This session follows the delegation’s consultations in Juba, reflecting the commitment of all parties to achieving lasting peace in the nation.
Sumbeiywo expressed gratitude to the stakeholders for their patience during the talks, emphasizing their dedication to peace. The mediation process involves the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), European Union, United Nations representatives, and Italian co-mediators from Sant’Egidio. The initiative aims to address outstanding issues identified since May, amidst efforts to prevent further conflict in South Sudan.
President William Ruto of Kenya and President Salva Kiir of South Sudan previously convened to direct the mediation team to continue efforts to finalize a peace agreement. The Tumaini talks, initiated in May, faced challenges that required revisiting agreements from previous years. The emphasis remains on creating protocols to resolve existing differences, with a key protocol focusing on Trust and Confidence Building.
The peace negotiations in South Sudan come in the wake of historical conflicts and previous agreements intended to stabilize the region, including the 2016 and 2018 agreements. Continuous conflict since their implementation has necessitated ongoing dialogue among key political factions. The IGAD’s involvement, along with international partners, underscores the complexity and gravity of the situation, where successful negotiation can lead to significant improvements in South Sudan’s humanitarian and political landscape.
In conclusion, the resumption of peace talks in Nairobi marks a crucial step towards achieving a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict in South Sudan. The efforts led by Lazarus Sumbeiywo and supported by various international bodies represent a collaborative approach to fostering unity and stability within the nation. This initiative, if successful, could pave the way for the long-awaited peace that the people of South Sudan desperately seek.
Original Source: english.news.cn
