South Sudan Calls for Unity in Peace Talks
South Sudan’s ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) party emphasizes the importance of unity within the transitional coalition government delegation participating in the Nairobi peace talks. Secretary General Peter Lam Both asserts that the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) delegation must work together as one team, regardless of their individual party affiliations. Tensions arose after the SPLM-IO withdrew from the Nairobi Tumaini Initiative, which Secretary General Both believes undermines the new peace efforts.
The SPLM-IO’s withdrawal complicates the fragile peace deal between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Despite challenges, both factions must collaborate effectively to achieve lasting peace in the country. The recent protocols signed in Nairobi address critical issues like security, ceasefire, and trust-building. However, concerns over the proposed National Leadership Council (NLC) remain unresolved.
The mediation, led by former Kenya army commander Lazarus Sumbeiywo, aims to address these challenges and promote peace in South Sudan. President Salva Kiir’s decision to transfer the mediation from the Community of Sant’Egidio to Kenyan counterpart William Ruto reflects the urgency and complexity of the peace negotiations.