JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has asked the opposition groups involved in the Tumaini initiative in Nairobi, Kenya, to prioritize the nation’s interests over political self-interest.
The talk, mediated by the Kenyan government, is set to resume on January 6, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya.
“The Tumaini Initiative peace negotiations taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, will resume on 6th January 2025. I ask our brothers in the opposition to show patriotism and put the interests of our country first,” Kiir said in his New Year public address on Tuesday.
Kiir called for a renewed commitment and compromise to peace.
“I do not foresee leaving any party behind nor isolating some of the existing parties in the agreement. I implore us to compromise and accommodate all the parties, for the time has come when leadership is needed more than politics,” he said.
He explained that politics is often centered on seeking positions and self-interest, while leadership is about having a vision for a better tomorrow and the next generation.
He stated that the year 2025 will be the year of unity of purpose towards comprehensive peace in their nation. In his view, peace is the uncontested factor for the survival of their nation.
“Though we have failed to conduct general elections to mark the end of the transitional period, we have made real progress in implementing the agreement that will lay a solid foundation for the conduct of peaceful and credible elections in 2026.”
He added that the postponement of the election and the consequent extension of the transitional period for another 24 months was due to practical reasons.
“I appreciate the parties that signed the peace agreement for their leadership and understanding that the extension was the best option. We have collectively chosen leadership over politics, and we have proven to the world that we can provide South Sudanese solutions to South Sudanese problems. We may be slow in implementation, but we are determined to hold on to peace.”
