- IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu visits South Sudan.
- The visit targets assessing the implementation of the R-ARCSS.
- High-level meetings were convened to address peace strategies.
- Civil society actors urge IGAD to facilitate Riek Machar’s release.
- Political tensions risk undermining South Sudan’s peace process.
IGAD Chief’s Visit Aims at Peace Assessment in South Sudan
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu arrived in Juba, South Sudan, on Wednesday and is set for a two-day official visit to the nation. This visit aims primarily at assessing the progress regarding the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). Upon his arrival, Gebeyehu was welcomed by Akuei Bona Malwal, South Sudan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who emphasized the significance of the visit.
Meetings Focus on Key Peace Strategy Discussions
Following landing, Gebeyehu engaged in a series of critical high-level meetings to discuss the current situation and strategize on future actions to support peace initiatives in South Sudan. Among his key engagements was a meeting with Monday Semaya Kumba, South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. Gebeyehu expressed the necessity for all parties involved to fully implement the R-ARCSS and urged collaboration among signatory parties to build a sustainable peace, reinforcing IGAD’s ongoing support to both the governmental bodies and the populace of South Sudan during this crucial phase.
Concerns Over Political Tensions and Peace Stability
Nevertheless, uncertainties linger regarding Gebeyehu’s potential meeting with detained First Vice President Riek Machar. South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his mission underscores the collaborative effort with IGAD, further reiterating the country’s dedication to working with regional stakeholders on vital issues. Meanwhile, notable civil society activist Ter Manyang Gatwech has called for a swift action from IGAD to facilitate Machar’s release, stressing that ongoing political tensions jeopardize the tenuous peace process. Despite the difficulties, he remains hopeful about the legal foundations of the peace agreement, although he emphasized that a political stalemate risks hindering progress towards stability.
Workneh Gebeyehu’s visit to South Sudan is centered on assessing the progress of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan amidst significant political tensions. His meetings with high-level officials highlight the urgent need for cooperation in implementing the agreement. With general elections scheduled for December 2026, the continued support from IGAD is essential in navigating this precarious transitional phase for South Sudan.
