Kenyan mediators invite Laraka’s group to Nairobi talks

JUBA – Kenyan mediators on Saturday invited the People’s Resistance Movement (PRM) led by General Laraka Machar Turoal to participate in the ongoing Nairobi peace talks aimed at unifying South Sudan’s warring parties.

The invitation, seen by Sudan Post, grants the PRM two seats at the negotiating table.

General Laraka welcomed the invitation, expressing his commitment to engage with President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s government on critical issues of security, governance, and the economy.

“I believe it is time for the people of South Sudan to come together and support a peaceful end to all the crises in South Sudan,” Laraka said in a statement from Nairobi. “I thank the Kenyan mediators for this opportunity.”

Laraka outlined key areas he believes require discussion, including reforms to the security arrangements outlined in the revitalized peace agreement, addressing communal conflicts, and environmental and economic concerns, particularly in oil-producing areas.

He emphasized the need for genuine democratic practices and respect for human rights, highlighting their role in fostering development.

Laraka also called for tackling tribalism, clannism, and corruption, advocating for a unified national identity.

“We need genuine, frank, and responsive talks with a fruitful outcome,” Laraka said, urging the unity government to demonstrate leadership.

The Kenyan-led initiative aims to incorporate non-signatory groups into the revitalized peace agreement to achieve lasting peace in South Sudan.

In addition to Laraka’s group, there are eight groups already participating. They include Real SPLM led by Pagan Amum, SSUF led by General Paul Malong, SSPM led by General Stephen Buay Rolnyang, and UDRM led by Deng Vanang, among others.

However, some significant groups remain excluded, including the SPLM-IO Kitgwang faction led by General Simon Gatwech Dual, the SPLM-IO Reformist faction led by Duer Tut Duer, and the National Salvation Front (NAS) led by General Thomas Cirillo.

Gatwech has previously warned that his group’s exclusion could render the Kenyan initiative ineffective, claiming his forces and the NAS hold significant military weight.