Civil Society Leader Urges Constructive Engagement for Stability and Transitional Justice

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Peace Organization (CEPO), addressed the media today from the ongoing peace talks in Nairobi, known as the Tumaini initiative. He emphasized the urgent need for the Government of National Unity and opposition parties, particularly those who have yet to sign the revitalized peace agreement, to engage constructively with a newly tabled “bridging proposal” aimed at mitigating ongoing political instability in South Sudan.

Yakani welcomed the Kenyan mediation team’s proposed “complementarity” measure after several parties expressed dissatisfaction with the mediation process’s handling. He urged both the government and opposition leaders to approach negotiations with a spirit of positivity, focusing on alleviating the palpable suffering among citizens who have faced prolonged economic hardships and delayed salaries for civil servants – some for nearly a year.

“The ongoing political turbulence has not only delayed civil servant salaries but has also incited communal violence and worsened economic instability,” Yakani stated. “It is imperative that the leadership positions itself to foster a conducive environment for upcoming elections scheduled for December 2026.” He called for a peaceful transfer of power facilitated by a transparent electoral process, suggesting that citizens should have the opportunity to vote for their preferred leaders.

Yakani emphasized that the political leaders must share a sense of responsibility for moving forward and should commit to using the bridging proposal as a genuine platform for progress. He cautioned against any attempts by self-serving politicians to derail the mediation process that has historically seen delays and setbacks, urging that it is time to prioritize effective political engagement.

Moreover, in related developments, Yakani also addressed the recent establishment of transitional justice institutions, including the Commission for Truth, Healing, and Reconciliation, approved by the President on November 11, 2024. He expressed a strong appeal for these institutions to be operational by early January 2025.

“Transitional justice is essential in promoting national healing and reconciliation, particularly ahead of the expected elections in December 2026,” he noted. Yakani underscored that these commissions must be free from partisan influences, advocating for rigorous parliamentary scrutiny in commissioner nominations.

The civil society leader concluded with a call to action, urging the African Union to assist in nominating commissioners for the new institutions, reiterating that without effective transitional justice, the nation risks regressing into violence. He called for immediate capacity building for legal experts related to the establishment of a hybrid court, laying the groundwork for accountability and justice in the transitional process.

As the peace discussions continue, the nation watches for a renewed commitment from its leaders toward constructive dialogue, stability, and the necessary steps toward healing the social fabric of South Sudan.