Ruto Calls for Peace Dialogue between South Sudan’s Leaders

President William Ruto has urged South Sudan’s leaders, Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, to engage in dialogue to enhance peace amid rising tensions and recent violence. Diplomatic consultations are ongoing to address the critical situation in South Sudan, a country that has struggled with conflict since its independence. The 2018 peace agreement faces significant execution challenges, particularly following recent political developments and arrests of key officials.

President William Ruto has called upon South Sudanese leaders, President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, to initiate dialogue to promote peace in the country. He emphasized the importance of setting aside their differences as the region strives to stabilize South Sudan within the framework of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

In a recent statement regarding the escalating security situation, President Ruto mentioned his discussions with both leaders, urging them to foster peace through communication. This appeal follows a period of increased tensions, including incidents where Machar’s residence was surrounded by soldiers and several of his allies faced detention after armed conflicts erupted.

Ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to identify a sustainable resolution to the crisis. Ruto confirmed that regional consultations are occurring to explore the best approaches for addressing the situation in South Sudan, the world’s newest nation, which has been plagued by conflict since its independence in 2011.

The civil war, which began in December 2013 due to political clashes between Kiir and Machar, resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and countless displacements. Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018, reinstating Machar as Vice President within a unity government formed in 2020, various challenges have hampered its full implementation.

Recent developments, including the detention of Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and senior military figures aligned with Machar during clashes in Nasir, have heightened concerns regarding the fragility of the peace agreement. Additionally, President Kiir’s cabinet reshuffle, which included dismissing influential officials, has further alarmed observers regarding the stability of the power-sharing agreement.

In summary, President William Ruto’s call for dialogue between South Sudanese leaders highlights the urgent need for peace amid escalating tensions. The challenges remaining in implementing the 2018 peace agreement are significant, and recent developments have amplified concerns over stability in the region. The efforts by regional authorities aim to navigate a pathway towards a sustainable solution for South Sudan, an endeavor critical to the nation’s future peace and stability.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke