South Sudan government, opposition groups commit to Kenya-led process

NAIROBI – South Sudan’s government and non-signatory opposition groups to the 2018 revitalized peace agreement have pledged to continue talks under a Kenya-led initiative aimed at ending the country’s long-running conflict.

In a document titled the “Declaration of Commitment to the Tumaini (Hope) Initiative for the South Sudan Peace Process,” the parties committed to “remain committed to the High-Level Mediation for South Sudan, Tumaini Initiative, under the auspices of H.E William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, as led by the Chief Mediator, Lt. Gen. Lazaro Sumbeiywo (Rtd).”

The agreement also includes a renunciation of violence and a call for peaceful dialogue.

“[We agree] to firmly renounce violence as a means of resolving differences and call upon all South Sudanese citizens to engage in constructive dialogue, fostering an environment where grievances can be addressed peacefully,” the declaration states.

Furthermore, the parties agreed to open political space, respect freedom of expression, and work towards compromise.

“[We] agreed to open civic and political spaces, to allow citizens to participate in peaceful political processes, and to respect, protect, and guarantee the freedom of expression, assembly, and association,” the document reads.

“[We will] set aside our differences and to compromise our political differences for the sake of the nation, and through open and honest discussions,” and “identify and implement practical solutions to the multiple challenges facing South Sudan.”

However, the initiative faces challenges.

While aimed at incorporating all non-signatories, key rebel groups like the National Salvation Front (NAS) led by General Thomas Cirilo Swaka and the National Democratic Movement – Patriotic Front (NDM-PF) led by Emmanuel Ajawin remain outside the process.