South Sudan’s Tumaini Peace Talks: CEPO’s Edmund Yakani Urges Political Maturity and Commitment
Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has raised significant concerns regarding the upcoming second phase of the Tumaini peace talks. In a recent address, he emphasized the importance of commitment and political responsibility from both government and opposition delegates participating in the negotiations scheduled to resume in Nairobi.
Following a meeting between South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Kenyan President William Ruto, Ruto announced progress on the Tumaini mediation process. A new government delegation was unveiled, featuring prominent figures such as General Paul Malong, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Martin Elia, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs B3. The second phase aims to achieve a successful conclusion within two weeks, as noted by Yakani.
Yakani expressed his appreciation for the government’s decision to engage in the peace talks but urged all delegates to abandon rigid political postures and commit to compromises necessary for the advancement of peace. “I’m appealing to all delegates from the government and the opposition to embrace political responsibility,” he stated.
He cautioned against any actions from delegates that could undermine the ongoing peace process, stating, “We don’t want to see anyone acting as a spoiler.” He asserted the critical need for stakeholders to participate in an inclusive peace agreement that would pave the way for peaceful and democratic elections in South Sudan.
Furthermore, Yakani called for support from regional partners, including Kenya and the African Union (AU), to encourage broader participation in the peace talks. He highlighted the necessity of unifying all factions, including notable opposition figures who have yet to join the negotiations.
“The political culture of working for peace in pieces in South Sudan needs to stop,” Yakani declared, emphasizing the need for a collective approach toward achieving lasting stability.
As South Sudan prepares for this crucial phase of peace talks, Yakani urges the public to demand accountability and political stability from their leaders, stressing that the time for genuine democratic practice has arrived. The road ahead remains uncertain, but the hope for a comprehensive peace agreement provides a glimmer of optimism for the nation’s future.
