South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Commended for Proactive Engagement in South Sudan Peace Process
By Majur Chol Khor
In a remarkable display of commitment to fostering peace and stability in South Sudan, South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has been lauded for his proactive involvement in seeking durable political solutions to the ongoing political instability in the region. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed his appreciation for President Ramaphosa’s unwavering efforts.
Yakani praised President Ramaphosa, highlighting his long-standing engagement with South Sudan as a key member of the African Union Committee of Five (AU C5) and his instrumental role in supporting the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
President Ramaphosa’s recent visit to South Sudan alongside the IGAD special envoy further underscores his commitment to facilitating dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders in the peace process. As South Sudan gears up for the upcoming general elections in December 2024, President Ramaphosa’s diplomatic initiatives aim to create a conducive environment for a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Yakani emphasized the need for transparency and timely communication from President Ramaphosa regarding the outcomes of his meetings with South Sudanese leaders. The South Sudanese activist urged for inclusive governance that prioritizes the welfare of citizens over political interests, urging President Ramaphosa to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the population.
During his three-day working visit to South Sudan, President Ramaphosa engaged in discussions with his counterpart, President Salva Kiir Mayardit, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and assessing the progress of peace implementation in the country. The joint efforts of both leaders signal a collaborative approach towards promoting peace and stability in the region.
As South Sudan navigates complex challenges on its path towards democratic elections, the proactive involvement of leaders like President Cyril Ramaphosa offers a ray of hope for a peaceful and prosperous future for the nation. With continued support and transparent communication, the journey towards lasting peace in South Sudan is set to gain momentum under the guidance of dedicated statesmen like President Ramaphosa.
