South Sudan’s Tumaini Initiative Gains Traction Amid Calls for Compromise from Leaders

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has expressed optimism regarding the progress made under the Tumaini initiative. Addressing a gathering with updates from key government figures, Yakani emphasized the importance of compromise between the South Sudanese government and opposition parties.

During an official update presented by Honourable Martin Elia Lomuro, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and a deputy mediator from the Kenyan-led mediation team, Yakani applauded the positive interactions between both parties, noting a newfound willingness from the opposition to engage with the government’s proposals. This shift, he stated, could be a turning point in the peace process, which has often faltered due to rigid positions from both sides.

Yakani underscored that the path to political stability in South Sudan relies on mutual compromises from both the government and opposition representatives. “If the parties continue with this spirit of compromise, we will harvest positive results under Tumaini,” he said, urging both sides to prioritize the interests of the citizens in their decision-making processes. 

The civil society leader also acknowledged that the opposition has shown a readiness to consider government observations on initial protocols, marking a promising development in the mediation dialogue. However, he called for the government to reciprocate with similar openness and flexibility. 

“Both parties must embrace the essential compromises needed for a successful political transition,” Yakani stated. He reiterated that the Tumaini initiative is critical for facilitating the pending tasks necessary to achieve a peaceful national general election in South Sudan. 

Yakani’s message reinforced the necessity for ongoing dialogue and compromise, advocating for a governance structure that genuinely addresses the needs of the South Sudanese people. “Let us hope that the spirit of compromise continues, leading us towards a final agreement that prioritizes the suffering of our citizens,” he concluded.

As the Tumaini initiative progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that sustained cooperation will pave the way toward lasting peace and stability for South Sudan.