South Sudanese Aspire for Lasting Peace Amid Election Delays

Despite delays in the national elections, the people of South Sudan remain hopeful for long-lasting peace and stability. Explore their aspirations and the challenges facing the nation.

South Sudan’s cultural richness was prominently displayed during an International Peace Day event in Juba, yet it was the shared aspiration for peace, democracy, and a hopeful future that garnered the most attention.

“With peace, I can attend school and live free from the anxieties I previously faced, including the loss of my family members. This is the positive aspect of the peace I am currently experiencing, even though not everything is perfect. I desire peace in South Sudan,” expressed Everlyne Batista, a performer from South Sudan.

Political matters overshadowed the discussions, particularly regarding the leaders’ decision to once again prolong the transitional government period and postpone elections.

“Our suffering is not due to the belief that peace requires vast sums of money. We are suffering because we need our political leaders to declare an end to violence. This does not necessitate a single South Sudanese Pound. We cannot allocate millions of dollars to purchase peace. If they can spend millions on weapons and ammunition, why can we not invest that same amount in ensuring the peace agreement is fulfilled?” stated Edmund Yakani from the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization.

Peace advocates expressed their dissatisfaction with the recent extension, despite considerable financial and international backing, clarifying their reasons for not endorsing a resolution on the matter during a recent meeting with political leaders.

“This was a clear indication of frustration and a message that the status quo cannot continue. A transition cannot be indefinite; we must see South Sudan advancing in the interest of peace, progressing with its transition, democratization, and heeding the voices of its citizens in crafting a permanent constitution. This is fundamentally about establishing a social contract and nation-building,” remarked Timo Olkkonen, the European Union Ambassador.

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First Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar Teny provided several justifications for the extension, emphasizing the necessity of unifying security forces, enabling the return of millions of South Sudanese refugees, addressing intercommunal conflicts, establishing a governance framework, and reaching consensus on a permanent constitution.

“It is not about holding onto power. This is a fact. Many of us desire to see the citizens of South Sudan elect their leaders, but this must occur in an environment that allows them to exercise their rights effectively. If we push them into an election under unfavorable conditions, we will ultimately bear the responsibility for the consequences, as we are aware of our people’s situation,” stated Riek Machar.

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General acknowledged both the risks and opportunities associated with the extension.

“While this situation requires the citizens of this nation to once again exhibit patience as they await the long-anticipated peace and democratic milestones, it also highlights the dangers of potential renewed conflict and the political void resulting from inadequate electoral preparations. However, it provides an additional chance for nation-building, and we must recognize that the challenges ahead are significant. There is a need for urgency, not a delay,” remarked Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.

He emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved when the leaders of South Sudan prioritize the welfare of their people and exhibit a unified purpose, shared goals, and political determination.