Tumaini Peace Talks Set to Resume: Advocacy for Leadership Change Made

The Tumaini Peace Initiative is poised to resume discussions next week, following a significant announcement from the Kenyan Chief Mediator, Retired Lieutenant General Lazaro Sumbeiywo. In an official letter, Sumbeiywo confirmed that dialogue will recommence on November 11, following the recent meeting between Kenyan President William Ruto and South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir.

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed his approval of the announcement and emphasized the need for renewed political commitment. “This is a positive development and a good response to our advocacy. We have continuously called for a genuine and practical framework to transition our country from violence to peace,” Yakani stated.

Yakani underscored the importance of a leadership change within the government delegation. Following the relief of Ambassador Albino Akol from his role as chief negotiator, he urged President Kiir to appoint a new head of delegation from the Minister in the Office of the President, in line with past practices. “We appeal to you, Your Excellency President Kiir, to ensure that the Minister in the Office of the President is appointed to lead the government delegation,” he asserted. “This will ensure a consistent flow of information from the Tumaini peace talks to the presidency.”

The appeal comes amid hopes for a collaborative effort between Kenya and South Sudan as they navigate the complexities of the peace process. “We are urging His Excellency President Kiir not to allow any spoilers of the Tumaini process to undermine these efforts,” Yakani warned. He added, “The cost of seeking peace is far more manageable than the expenses incurred through violence and instability.”

The resumption of the Tumaini Peace Initiative has sparked renewed hope among stakeholders and the affected communities in South Sudan. Following the fruitful discussions held during H.E. President William Ruto’s visit to Juba, it is clear that the path forward hinges on collaborative efforts and sustained dialogue.

In anticipation of the upcoming talks scheduled to commence on 11th November 2024, various stakeholders including representatives from the government, holdout groups, civil society organizations, and international partners are gearing up for a pivotal two-week negotiation period. The Chief Mediator, Lt. Gen. Lazaro Sumbeiywo (Rtd), emphasized the importance of this round of talks, stating, “This is not merely another meeting; it is a critical juncture that can dictate the future of our nation. We must approach these discussions with a spirit of compromise and accountability to ensure that the voices of the people of South Sudan are heard and valued.”

The protocols drafted during the earlier phases of the initiative are set to be a cornerstone of the upcoming negotiations. Stakeholders hope to finalize these protocols addressing key issues such as power-sharing, security arrangements, and the reintegration of displaced persons. Observers have noted that the successful implementation of these provisions will be essential in building trust and ensuring stability in a region that has endured decades of conflict.

Human rights organizations are closely monitoring the developments, urging all parties to adhere to the principles of transparency and respect for human dignity throughout the negotiations. The international community has also pledged its support, with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) reaffirming its commitment to assist in the peace process.

As the Tumaini Peace Initiative resumes, the people of South Sudan remain cautiously optimistic. Community leaders have started holding forums to drum up local support for the peace process, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of adversity. “Our goal should be a united South Sudan, where every citizen enjoys the fruits of peace and development. We have the chance to turn the page on our painful history,” said one community leader.

The next two weeks will be crucial as leaders engage in discussions that could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous South Sudan. The message from both Presidents during their joint communique was clear: peace is not just an absence of conflict, but a proactive state of cooperation and mutual respect.

As stakeholders prepare to reconvene, the hope is that this renewed commitment will indeed lead to tangible results for all South Sudanese, ensuring that the Tumaini Peace Initiative fulfills its promise of hope and healing for a nation longing for stability and harmony.