Urgent Appeal for Inclusive Leadership: CEPO Calls for Action on South Sudan’s Transitional Processes

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has issued a heartfelt appeal to the newly reconstituted leadership of the National Transitional Committee (NPTC) to convene an immediate meeting aimed at addressing pending tasks related to the country’s transitional period. 

In a statement delivered on March 22, 2025, Yakani emphasized the importance of developing a concrete action plan in light of the extended two-year transitional period, which is set to conclude on February 22, 2027. This period is seen as crucial in creating a conducive environment for national elections scheduled for December 2026.

Yakani urged the NPTC to facilitate an inclusive dialogue involving political parties and civil society organizations to foster a collective approach toward the implementation of the action plan. He stated, “We need to come together as a nation to agree on the pathways to deliver the pending tasks of our transition, with an eye toward successful elections.”

Highlighting the importance of the ongoing Tumaini process, Yakani called for the NPTC’s support in concluding this initiative swiftly so that a unified political framework can be forged. He reiterated that the NPTC must not overlook the recommendations arising from the RBA (Referendum for the People of Abyei), urging the government of South Sudan to take prompt action towards its outcomes.

“The sons and daughters of Abyei deserve recognition as South Sudanese, given their sacrifices for our independence,” Yakani asserted, emphasizing the need for constructive leadership to address the RBA referendum and foster national unity.

As the country navigates through its transitional challenges, Yakani’s call to action emphasizes collaboration, urgency, and a commitment to democratization in South Sudan. The appeal highlights the vital role of inclusive leadership in shaping the future of the nation. 

The response from the NPTC will be crucial in determining the pace and effectiveness of South Sudan’s transition as it moves closer to realizing its democratic aspirations.