Amidst vibrant cultural performances at Juba’s International Peace Day event, South Sudan’s complex journey towards peace and democracy took center stage.
First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny defended the recent two-year extension of the transitional government, stating,
“Many of us want to see the people of South Sudan elect their leaders but in an environment which is conducive for them to exercise their right.”
Quick Facts:
- Transitional government extended by two years
- Elections postponed due to security and logistical concerns
- International partners express frustration at implementation delays
- Civil society calls for urgent progress towards peace
Balancing Hope and Frustration
The event showcased South Sudan’s cultural diversity while highlighting the collective desire for peace and democracy.
Nineteen-year-old performer Everlyne Batista expressed hope:
“With peace, I can go to school, I can live without the stress I had before, including losing my relatives.”
However, the mood was tempered by frustration over political delays.
Civil society representative Edmund Yakani criticized leaders, saying,
“Peace is not the responsibility for politicians to use it and keep us suffering in this economic crisis that we are in.”
International Concerns
Stakeholder |
Position on Extension |
|---|---|
| EU | Did not support resolution |
| Troika (UK, US, Norway) | Expressed disappointment |
| UN | Acknowledged risks, called for urgency |
International partners voiced concerns about the extension. EU Ambassador Timo Olkkonen explained their stance:
“This was not a vote against the peace agreement. It was a signal of frustration and a message that this can’t be business as usual.”
The Troika countries (Norway, UK, USA) expressed “deep disappointment and frustration at the persistent failure to implement key benchmarks in the agreement,“ according to UK Ambassador Guy Warrington.
Government’s Perspective
First Vice President Machar outlined reasons for the delay, including the need to:
- Finalize unification of forces
- Ensure the return of refugees
- Resolve intercommunal conflicts
- Determine the governance system
- Agree on a permanent constitution
He emphasized that financial support would be crucial for implementing the peace agreement and delivering elections.
Trying to predict the Future
The extension of South Sudan’s transitional period highlights the ongoing challenges in the country’s path to democracy. While it provides more time for nation-building, it also risks prolonging political uncertainty and frustrating citizens eager for change.
The international community’s reaction suggests a potential shift in approach, with partners calling for more concrete progress and accountability.
The coming months will be critical in determining whether South Sudan can make meaningful strides towards peace and democracy.
A Collective Responsibility
As South Sudan navigates this complex transition, the message of collective responsibility resonates.
Acting Minister of Peacebuilding, Losuba Wongo, summed it up:
“Every individual has a role to play in nurturing peace in our communities and our hearts. Peace is not merely a dream; it can be achieved together.”
The path forward requires sustained effort from all stakeholders – government, civil society, and international partners – to turn the promise of peace into reality for the people of South Sudan.
Sources: THX News & United Nations Mission in South Sudan.
