President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized solidarity with South Sudan during the IGAD Assembly, highlighting the 2018 Revitalized Agreement as crucial for peace. He called for immediate cessation of hostilities, unification of security forces, and restoration of dialogue between political leaders. The speech concluded with a call for renewed commitment to peace and collective responsibility for the future stability of South Sudan.
In a speech delivered at the 43rd Extraordinary Virtual Assembly of IGAD Heads of State and Government, H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed the critical situation in the Republic of South Sudan. He commended IGAD for assembling leaders to discuss the pressing challenges faced by the nation, reaffirming Somalia’s solidarity with the South Sudanese people and commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
President Mohamud acknowledged the significant efforts made towards peace in South Sudan, particularly the 2018 Revitalized Agreement, which remains the best framework for reconciliation. He emphasized the necessity for all stakeholders to recommit to this agreement, recognizing that challenges persist and a collective effort is required to reach lasting peace.
The speech underscored the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over conflict amidst rising tensions. Highlighting past successes in mediation, the President reiterated the importance of sustained dialogue facilitated by IGAD to address grievances and pledges restorative mediation efforts for the South Sudanese populace.
Central to peace efforts is the unification of South Sudan’s security forces, an essential aspect of the revitalized agreement. The speaker expressed Somalia’s full support for IGAD’s initiative towards enhancing security through the formation of Unified National Forces, stressing that swift action in this area is vital for restoring confidence in governance and reducing conflict risks.
Furthermore, President Mohamud pointed to the concerning breakdown in dialogue between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. He called for renewed communication and collaboration between the leadership to ensure national unity and dedication to the peace process, appealing for efforts to resolve political disagreements through consultation and compromise.
As he called for revitalization of the 2018 peace agreement, the President recognized the progress made while urging for the acceleration of its full implementation. He advocated for a focus on political unity and reconciliation, pointing out that inclusive governance must take precedence over factional interests for sustainable peace.
In conclusion, President Mohamud emphasized the pivotal choice facing South Sudan: to continue in division or to embrace peace and national unity. He called upon all leaders in IGAD and the international community to share in the responsibility of securing lasting peace for the people of South Sudan, urging a reaffirmation of commitment to regional cooperation in achieving stability and security.
In summary, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s speech at the IGAD Assembly highlights the urgent need for peace and stability in South Sudan. He calls for renewed commitment to the 2018 Revitalized Agreement, emphasizes the importance of unity among South Sudanese leaders, and advocates for constructive dialogue to resolve conflicts. The collective responsibility of IGAD and the international community is to support South Sudan in its journey towards lasting peace.
Original Source: igad.int
