South Sudanese Advocacy Group Calls for Positive Council of Ministers Action on 2013 RBA Referendum Results
Mr. Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed his strong support for the endorsement of the 2013 RBA referendum results by the governance cluster. In a statement released today, Yakani appealed to the Council of Ministers, urging them to act positively on the matter during their upcoming session scheduled for tomorrow.
Yakani highlighted the dire situation facing the citizens of South Sudan, particularly referencing recent violence in Medini. He underscored the historical challenges faced by communities both within South Sudan and in the wider region, emphasizing the urgent need to establish clarity over the RBA administrative area’s status and its implications for international borders with Sudan.
“The internal crises we are experiencing should not lead to the sacrifice of our international borders,” Yakani stated, calling for a unified focus on the stability and security of the RBA area. He implored the Council of Ministers and the President to ensure a favorable outcome regarding the 2013 referendum results, which he described as critical for the lives and futures of the citizens who have historically fought for South Sudan’s independence.
Yakani also urged the Parliament to take swift action on the referendum results, warning against any delays that could compromise the rights and dignity of those from the RBA region. “We must not humiliate or discriminate against our people due to our internal challenges,” he asserted.
The CEPO Executive Director concluded his statement by reiterating that the resolution of the RBA status is a national agenda essential for the hope and progress of South Sudan. The upcoming Council of Ministers meeting is expected to play a crucial role in determining the future of this long standing issue.
