South Sudan is entering an extended transitional phase, with the UN envoy warning that time is running out to fulfill commitments under the 2018 peace accord by the new deadline of February 2027. Despite some progress, significant gaps remain, particularly with upcoming elections. The region faces a humanitarian crisis compounded by rising inflation, violence, and logistical challenges affecting UN operations.
As South Sudan embarks on its extended transitional period starting this month, the chief UN envoy has cautioned that the time is running short to fulfill the commitments of the 2018 peace accord. With a new deadline set for February 2027, the situation remains critical as the Revitalized Peace Agreement intended to conclude years of conflict but has yet to lead to free elections or an established democratic governance framework.
The UN Security Council was informed by Nicolas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan, that citizens are eager for progress. He stated, “There is a strong desire for the leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement – without further delay.” Yet, numerous political and security reforms are still pending, hindering progress.
Haysom highlighted the urgency of expediting reforms, particularly in the security sector, electoral preparations, and judicial processes. He emphasized, “The clock is already ticking on the extended transitional period. Decision-makers need to tackle several issues simultaneously and immediately.” Despite some advancements, significant gaps remain, especially with elections approaching in December 2026, leaving critical conditions unmet, such as the complete deployment of unified security forces.
Concern over rising communal violence poses a threat to vulnerable communities, particularly women and children. Recent conflicts in Western Equatoria and reports of illegal checkpoints underscore the tenuous security situation. Compounding this, the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan has resulted in violence within South Sudan, leading to unrest following reports of executions of nationals.
The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan continues to deteriorate, with over one million Sudanese refugees contributing to an overwhelming 9.3 million individuals requiring assistance. Economic hardships are escalating, with inflation reaching 107 percent, doubling food prices, and government workers facing 10 months of unpaid salaries. Health challenges are exacerbated by cholera outbreaks and last year’s flooding.
The UN’s 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan aims to assist 5.4 million people but faces significant funding hurdles. An appeal for $1.7 billion underscores the urgent need for resources to address these crises. Mr. Haysom also noted logistical issues facing the UN peacekeeping mission (UNMISS) due to government demands, complicating the mission’s operational capabilities.
Concluding, Mr. Haysom reaffirmed the UN’s steadfast commitment to supporting the people of South Sudan in their journey towards stability and democratization, emphasizing the necessity for concerted efforts to meet these challenges.
The article discusses the current transitional phase in South Sudan following the Revitalized Peace Agreement signed in 2018 to end conflict. With the new deadline for elections approaching, the UN envoy expresses concern over unfulfilled commitments and urges rapid action from South Sudan’s leadership. The article also highlights the humanitarian crisis alongside security challenges stemming from both internal strife and regional instability, complicating the nation’s recovery efforts.
In summary, the UN’s warnings regarding South Sudan’s stalled progress underscore the urgency for government action to fulfill peace accord commitments. With elections approaching and pressing humanitarian concerns, there is a critical need for political reform and support for the affected populace. Continuous engagement from the international community remains vital to safeguarding the future stability and democratization of South Sudan.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
