South Sudan’s Fragile Peace: A Call for Inclusive Dialogue
Juba, April 8, 2025 – South Sudan, a nation born from the aspirations of freedom and self-determination, now finds itself at a critical juncture. The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which brought relative peace for the last seven years, is now teetering on the brink of collapse. Dr. Gai Chol Paul, chairman of the Coalition of Opposition Parties (COOP), has issued a stark warning: “Peace is effectively dead, and the current framework is no longer viable.”
The R-ARCSS, signed in 2018, was meant to usher in a new era of stability and cooperation among South Sudan’s political factions. However, recent developments paint a grim picture. Fighting has resumed among the main parties to the agreement, and many leaders of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) have been arrested or forced into hiding. This erosion of trust and security has left the nation vulnerable to further conflict and instability.
Dr. Paul’s statement underscores the urgency of the situation. He calls on President Salva Kiir to convene an inclusive conference with all stakeholders to explore ways to prevent the country from sliding back into war. “This plea is not just a political maneuver; it is a desperate attempt to salvage what remains of South Sudan’s fragile peace.”
The challenges facing South Sudan are immense. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with millions displaced and in need of assistance. The economic situation is dire, with inflation soaring and public officials unpaid for over a year. The political landscape is fractured, with opposition leaders detained and the SPLM-IO weakened. Amid these challenges, the R-ARCSS has failed to provide a sustainable framework for peace and governance.
“President Kiir and his allies must recognize the gravity of the situation. Claiming that the R-ARCSS remains relevant in its current form risks misleading the public and exacerbating tensions. Instead, the focus must shift to fostering inclusivity and dialogue.” An inclusive conference, as proposed by Dr. Paul, could serve as a platform for rebuilding trust and charting a path forward.
South Sudan’s future hangs in the balance. The international community, regional actors, and South Sudanese leaders must act decisively to prevent further bloodshed and suffering. The call for an inclusive conference is not just a political necessity; it is a moral imperative. South Sudan deserves a chance to heal, rebuild, and thrive.
