UNMISS Welcomes Resumption of Kenya-Led Peace Talks in South Sudan

UNMISS has welcomed the resumption of peace talks led by Kenya, involving the South Sudanese government and opposition groups. Deputy Special Representative Guang Cong acknowledged the leadership of Presidents Salva Kiir and William Ruto, emphasizing the need for an inclusive approach to ensure diverse voices are represented in the peace agreement.

On December 5, 2023, UNMISS, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, expressed its support for the resumption of peace negotiations facilitated by Kenya involving the government of Juba and various opposition factions. During the opening of the Tumaini Initiative, Deputy Special Representative for Political Affairs, Guang Cong, praised the leadership of President Salva Kiir and President William Ruto for their commitment to reinitiating the discussions. He emphasized the leaders’ collective desire to expedite the process, reflecting the wishes of the South Sudanese populace.

Cong highlighted the importance of these peace talks, commending the dedication and perseverance of all involved for their efforts over the previous seven months. He stressed that success in these discussions demands openness from all parties, as well as robust backing from the international community, which hinges on demonstrable progress and a collective commitment towards lasting peace. This initiative, he noted, should embrace the contributions of a wide array of groups within South Sudan, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into the final agreement.

UNMISS remains fully committed to supporting ongoing efforts aimed at achieving enduring peace in South Sudan. Cong articulated the vital necessity for inclusive participation in the Tumaini process, which should incorporate contributions from civil society, women, youth, individuals with disabilities, traditional authorities, and religious organizations, to foster good governance and sustainable peace throughout the nation.

The Tumaini Initiative is a pivotal peace negotiation process aimed at fostering dialogue among conflicting parties in South Sudan, a nation plagued by civil strife since its independence. The involvement of Kenya in mediating these talks is significant, as it highlights regional cooperation to achieve a sustainable resolution. UNMISS plays a crucial role in supporting peace initiatives, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diverse participation to ensure that the aspirations of all South Sudanese citizens are represented in the final peace agreement.

In conclusion, the resumption of peace talks in Kenya is a commendable step towards addressing the protracted conflict in South Sudan. The support from UNMISS signifies the importance of international collaboration in achieving peace. The emphasis on inclusive participation in the Tumaini process is crucial to ensure that the perspectives of all segments of the population are considered, creating a more comprehensive and lasting peace framework for the country.

Original Source: sudantribune.com