Civil Society Leader Urges Compromise in South Sudan Amid Ongoing Political Turmoil

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has issued a passionate appeal for compromise between the South Sudanese government and opposing factions in light of the ongoing political instability plaguing the nation since 2013.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Yakani highlighted the urgent need for a collaborative approach to the Tumaini process, which aims to create an inclusive government as part of a political transitional framework. He expressed concern over the current stalemate between the government and opposition parties, who are at odds regarding the renegotiation of initial protocols established under the Tumaini initiative.

“The beginning of the Tumaini process was encouraging and motivated hope for stability,” Yakani noted. However, he lamented that the conflicting positions taken by the government—interested in reopening negotiations on the initial protocols—and the opposition—insisting on starting discussions from previously established points—have created a barrier to progress.

Yakani called for both sides to embrace dialogue and find a middle ground to alleviate the suffering of South Sudan’s citizens, who are bearing the brunt of the ongoing conflict and instability. “Your rigidity should not make citizens hostages to political instability,” he warned, emphasizing the dire consequences of continued stagnation.

He underscored the humanitarian crises, as innocent citizens suffer from lack of medical care, economic hardship, and hunger, further exacerbated by natural disasters such as flooding. “If we are to gain political stability through Tumaini, we could rescue lives and improve conditions for our citizens,” he stated.

Yakani’s plea comes as the political landscape remains fraught with challenges. He urged both the government and opposition to prioritize the needs of the populace over entrenched political positions, advocating for a culture of ongoing dialogue and compromise.

“The success of Tumaini should not only be a goal for political elites but a lifeline for the citizens of South Sudan,” Yakani concluded, calling on all involved parties to take immediate action to mitigate the suffering of their fellow citizens.