CEPO Calls for Urgent Resumption of Tumaini Initiative to Secure Political Stability

The Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Mr. Edmund Yakani, emphasized the critical need to revive the Tumaini initiative as a strategic approach to secure political stability in South Sudan. Speaking to reporters, Yakani noted that the involvement of non-signatory political parties in the ongoing mediation led by Kenya is essential for creating a conducive environment for the upcoming elections scheduled for December 2026.

“The resumption of the Tumaini initiative under Kenyan mediation is not just vital; it is a political necessity,” asserted Yakani. “The current timeline for completing the Tumaini initiative highlights the significant influence of spoilers on the presidency, which we cannot afford to ignore.”

CEPO has expressed high hopes that President Salva Kiir will take decisive action to recommission the government delegation back to Kenya for the Tumaini Peace Talks. Yakani stated that the limited time remaining from the previous extended transitional period of four months should be utilized to finalize these discussions. He proposed ensuring that outcomes from the Tumaini consultations are intricately linked with the pending tasks of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

“With the elections on the horizon, it is imperative that we develop a concrete and clear implementation matrix that connects the outcomes of the Tumaini Peace Talks and R-ARCSS,” Yakani stressed. “Our focus must remain on the December 2026 general elections, which could shape the future of our nation.”

In a spirit of solidarity, Yakani extended his gratitude to Kenyan President William Ruto for demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering genuine political transition amidst the challenging landscape faced by South Sudan.

“We deeply appreciate President Ruto’s unwavering support for the people and government of South Sudan,” he said. “However, the dragging of feet over the past five years in transitioning from political instability to stability has primarily been due to the actions of spoilers.”

Yakani revealed that CEPO is committed to promoting a roundtable dialogue on the transitional process, launching a campaign for National Peace and Trust. “Our National Transitional Dialogues will kick off in November 2024. This initiative aims to engage various stakeholders in meaningful conversations that foster peace and unity,” he concluded.

As South Sudan navigates the complexities of its political landscape, the urgency for united action and dialogue remains clear. The resumption of the Tumaini initiative could be pivotal in steering the country towards lasting peace and electoral democracy.