Kiir appoints special envoy to lead peace talks with holdout groups

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has named presidential special envoy, Albino Mathom Ayuel, as the head of the government’s negotiation team with the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA).

The appointment aims to advance efforts toward a comprehensive peace agreement and end ongoing violence, particularly in the Equatoria region.

Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Ramadan Abdallah confirmed the appointment to Sudans Post, highlighting Ayuel’s strong relationships with regional leaders who can contribute to the success of the initiative.

However, details on the team’s size and SSOMA’s response to the government’s proposal remain undisclosed.

“Consultations are ongoing with all stakeholders, including Kenya, which is actively engaging with potential negotiating groups,” Abdallah added. “We expect further developments in the coming days.”

President Kiir’s appeal to Kenya for mediation reflects the stalled progress of the Rome Peace talks, which have been ongoing for several years without achieving a definitive agreement.

Kenyan President William Ruto has agreed to facilitate the process, consulting with key stakeholders and the Community of Sant’Egidio, the previous mediators.