The African Union's High-Level Committee on South Sudan (C5) has urged the government of South Sudan to take swift action to resolve outstanding issues ahead of the country's first elections, scheduled for December 22. The committee, led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, emphasized the need for a free, fair, and credible electoral process. The elections have been postponed twice, and the government has yet to implement key prerequisites outlined in the 2018 peace agreement.
The C5, comprising Algeria, South Africa, Chad, Nigeria, and Rwanda, has recommended that the South Sudanese government seriously address the necessary political, legal, technical, operational, financial, and security requirements for a peaceful, credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral process. The committee's call comes amid concerns over the country's preparedness for the elections. Last week, President Salva Kiir dissolved the transitional government, adding to the uncertainty.
The African Union's Peace and Security Council (CPS) held a meeting on the situation in South Sudan last month, examining the latest developments and the state of implementation of the revitalized peace agreement. The Algerian ambassador to the AU, Mohamed Khaled, who chaired the meeting, noted that the elections were only four months away and highlighted the need for progress. Despite concerns on the ground, Khaled welcomed the transitional authorities' commitment to the electoral process.
The CPS members stressed the importance of all signatory parties respecting their commitments to implementing the revitalized peace agreement. They also issued an urgent appeal to AU member states, the international community, and partners to provide coordinated financial and logistical support to ensure the success of the electoral process and mitigate the effects of the humanitarian crisis.
The situation in South Sudan remains complex, with security, political, and humanitarian concerns. The country has made limited progress in implementing the 2018 peace agreement, and the postponement of elections has raised concerns about the government's commitment to democratic processes. The C5 and CPS have emphasized the need for swift action to address these challenges.
Algeria, as a member of the C5 and chair of the CPS, has played a key role in promoting peace and stability in South Sudan. The country's ambassador to the AU, Mohamed Khaled, has been actively engaged in efforts to support the implementation of the peace agreement and ensure a successful electoral process.
The international community is watching closely as South Sudan prepares for its first elections. The country's progress will be crucial in determining its future stability and democratic development. The African Union's High-Level Committee on South Sudan will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Key points
- The African Union's High-Level Committee on South Sudan has called on the government to act quickly to address pending issues ahead of the country's first elections.
- The elections have been postponed twice, and the government has yet to implement key prerequisites outlined in the 2018 peace agreement.
- The international community is watching closely as South Sudan prepares for its first elections, with the country's progress crucial in determining its future stability and democratic development.
