Kenya has reaffirmed its support for South Sudan's political transition and preparations for the country's General Election scheduled for December 22. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, representing President William Ruto, attended a virtual meeting of the African Union Committee on South Sudan. The meeting, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, assessed the political, security, and humanitarian situation in South Sudan.
The virtual meeting discussed measures required to support the conclusion of South Sudan's transition period and promote peace and stability in the country. Participants evaluated progress towards preparing for the December elections. Kindiki stated that the meeting agreed the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other international partners will continue supporting South Sudan's transition.
The meeting comes amid continued regional and international efforts to support South Sudan's political process and promote stability as the country approaches the elections. South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced political and security challenges, including a civil war that began in 2013. A peace agreement signed in 2018 sought to end the conflict and establish a transitional government.
The December 22 election is expected to mark an important stage in South Sudan's political transition. The African Union and IGAD have continued to engage South Sudanese leaders and other stakeholders on the implementation of the peace process and preparations for the polls. The meeting brought together regional and continental stakeholders to assess the situation and consider further support for South Sudan.
Kenya has historically played a role in regional peace and mediation efforts involving South Sudan, including through IGAD-led initiatives. The latest meeting comes as regional governments seek to ensure that the transition process proceeds peacefully and that the planned elections are conducted in a manner that contributes to stability.
Participants agreed to maintain support for South Sudan beyond the electoral preparations, with emphasis on peace, unity, and democratic governance. The AU, IGAD, and other partners are expected to continue working with South Sudan towards the conclusion of the transition period and the holding of the scheduled elections.
The discussions also underscored the importance of addressing the country's political, security, and humanitarian challenges as it prepares for the December vote. With Kenya's backing, South Sudan is expected to receive continued support from the international community to ensure a peaceful and stable transition.
Key points
- Kenya reaffirms support for South Sudan's political transition and December election preparations
- African Union and IGAD to continue supporting South Sudan's transition
- December 22 election marks an important stage in South Sudan's political transition
